By Francine Keller
As a volunteer for the American Heart Association, I had the unique opportunity to participate in the American Heart Association’s Education and Lobby Day at the Capitol in Olympia on February 13.

I am a heart attack survivor, and when I was 32 years old after a lengthy illness, I suffered a heart attack which precipitated an emergency aortic aneurysm and open heart surgery. Less than 1% of those stricken with this condition ever make it to the hospital. I was one of the lucky ones who really wanted to find a way to give back and encourage prevention of heart disease in women.

About 40 volunteers and staff members participated in Lobby Day, learning more about heart disease and advocating for key issues in the current legislative session: Protecting Clean Indoor Air Law by preventing a loophole that would allow smoking back into cigar lounges and tobacco shops; increasing the cigarette tax; requiring CPR education as a graduation requirement in high schools; and improving health outcomes through transportation planning.

I was a bit anxious as I’d never met with a senator or representative but then I was gently reminded that we elect these folks and they are very happy to meet with their constituents! I was encouraged by the positive reception provided to me at offices of Sen. Sharon Nelson, Rep. Eileen Cody, and Rep. Joe Fitzgibbon, and fortunate to meet with the knowledgeable and welcoming legislative assistants as we told our story and discussed our position on each bill.

My day as a lobbyist for the AHA was very powerful, insightful and meaningful on so many levels. I felt proud that I could tell my personal story and try to make a difference by creating awareness at the highest level in our state. On a personal note, my father who is now 87 was a lobbyist for many years and it was really fascinating to get a taste of his world, which we both got a kick out of.

I urge everyone to support the fight against heart disease and stroke in our state. To become an advocate, you can contact the American Heart Association at 206-632-6881 or visit www.YoureTheCure.org.

Francine Keller