Beyond ME MEASURE
THE SILENT SIGNAL A WAKE-UP CALL FOR WOMEN’ S HEART HEALTH
Ten years ago, in 2015, my life changed forever when I was diagnosed with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, more commonly known as“ broken heart syndrome.” Within just two years, I experienced not one, but two cardiac events. The first in 2015, and another in 2016— each one a powerful reminder of how critical heart health is, especially for women.
Before my diagnosis, I was extremely active— the kind of person who didn’ t slow down for anything. So the biggest challenge I faced wasn’ t just physical recovery— it was learning how to slow down, face my limitations, and come to terms with what my body was going through. It was a complete lifestyle shift, and one that tested me mentally, emotionally, and physically.
What inspired me to become an advocate was the challenge I faced in getting diagnosed in the first place. Because my condition wasn’ t hereditary and I didn’ t fit the typical mold— I was healthy, active, and had no previous health issues— it was harder to pinpoint what was going on. That experience made me realize how many others might also be overlooked or misunderstood, simply because they don’ t“ look” like someone with heart disease.
Tanya McNider
Since then, I’ ve made it my mission to carry the torch of the American Heart Association, raising awareness and helping people recognize the signs that are too often ignored. I’ ve committed to training with a professional four days a week, maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle, and being living proof that heart disease doesn’ t discriminate— it can happen to anyone.
“ This 10-year milestone isn’ t the end of my journey— it’ s just the beginning. And as long as I can speak, I’ ll keep using my voice to educate, empower, and ignite change. Because when we carry the torch together, we light the way forward.”
That’ s also why being honored at the 2025 Art for Heart Gala means the world to me and my family. It’ s not just recognition— it’ s a message. It says that heart disease comes in all forms, affects people of all appearances, and doesn’ t follow a predictable path. I didn’ t look like someone who“ should” be sick. And yet, I was. The AHA is helping to shift that narrative— and I’ m proud to be part of it.
To anyone navigating their own heart health challenges, my message is this: Advocate for yourself. Trust your body. Keep asking questions. You know when something isn’ t right. Listen to that voice inside— it could save your life.
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