Volunteer Spotlight: Abigail Davis

This month, we want to introduce you to Arkansas Advocate, Abigail Davis (right), Miss Metro's Outstanding Teen 2018. We asked a few questions, to learn more about Abigail and why she advocates for the American Heart Association. 

Where is your hometown? Little Rock, Arkansas 

What school do you attend? Little Rock Christian Academy, Class of 2019

What are your future aspirations? I plan to graduate high school and attend college at an SEC school and then go on to medical school to achieve my dream of becoming a cardiologist. I hope to someday get married and start a family as I absolutely love children. I also hope to continue to be an advocate for a heart healthy lifestyle with all those I meet along the way.

What is your favorite movie? Collateral Beauty. It's a new one but it's a quick favorite as I love the meaning behind it.

What are your hobbies? I enjoy all kinds of dance and am currently working on perfecting a new jazz dance routine. I'm also making time to pick back up my gymnastic skills. I almost forgot how much I loved it! I'm privileged to represent my junior class as student council secretary this year which comes with all kinds of fun and interesting activities. And in my spare time, I love to put together puzzles with my family.

Do you have pets? I have one Cavalier King Charles Spaniel named Emma Jane who is 8. I sure love to see her at the end of a long day!

What are you family members names? My parents are Mark and Tammie Davis and my older brother is Mason. 

Who are your role models? Both of my parents are my true role models. They both have different outlooks on life and that is what makes them such amazing teachers for me. They encourage me everyday to be the best I can be and make sure I am doing all that I am capable of. Thanks to my parents, I am the Abigail Davis I am today. 

What is your greatest achievement, so far? I was able to compete in the Miss Arkansas' Outstanding Teen pageant this past summer and perform my talent, compete in active wear, and even walk on stage in an evening gown and answer an onstage question. It was such a wonderful experience and I met the most amazing girls from across the state. It was one of the best weeks of my life!

Who are two celebrities or historical figures you would want to have dinner with (living or not) and why? Elizabeth Blackwell was the first female doctor in the U.S. in 1849. I would love to ask her questions about what it was like to break a glass ceiling in her time while also doing something that she is so passionate about. I would also invite Bobby Flay because my family loves to watch his cooking shows. I may want him to cook the dinner for us because it would be a guaranteed hit!! 

What is your favorite AHA event? I had the opportunity to volunteer at the Go Red for Women luncheon promoting their silent auction items. Our very own Miss America 2017, Savvy Shields was the guest speaker and she did an amazing job! This event was a great chance to see how the American Heart Association has impacted the lives of so many across the state of Arkansas.

Why is advocating for the AHA important to you? My grandfather passed away from complications related to heart disease. He realized over time that many of the consequences of heart disease could be delayed or avoided by staying active, eating healthy, and staying away from smoking. Heart disease is known as the silent killer for a reason but each of us can make a difference. My grandfather’s health inspired me to share tips on how to live a heart healthy lifestyle and make sure more people know what actions they can take today to make a real change in their heart condition. I miss my grandfather everyday but I know he would be proud of the work I’m doing. You can follow my Facebook page and Instagram feed “A Better Heart for a Better Life” where you can find more heart-healthy tips.

What would you say to encourage others to be an advocate for the AHA? Heart disease is the number one killer in the United States which means so many families are affected. This sad statistic should make us all want to get involved with the American Heart Association. We should take a stand now and make sure younger generations and even adults are realizing the causes of heart disease. A great way for young ladies to volunteer, learn, and grow with the American Heart Association is through the Sweethearts program. I took away such great knowledge and had so much fun participating in this wonderful program.

Want to join Abigail and be an advocate with the American Heart Association? Join our You're The Cure network today! Get started by clicking HERE.