Why is Why

Meet Minnesota State Advocacy Committee Member, Dale Wakasugi.

My Why is why. Why did I get heart disease? Why did I have a heart attack? Why did I survive cardiac arrest twice? Why am I still here? Why am I so passionate about the AHA?

What brought you to be an advocate for the American Heart Association?

I was introduced to the AHA and became an advocate by working with them initially through the Minnesota Sudden Cardiac Arrest Survivor’s Network. I wanted to become involved with the AHA in a bigger way to help not only give back but to help pay it forward so others may benefit from me advocating for great causes.

What issues or policies are you most passionate about and why?

Interested in policies or issues that impact survival rates from cardiac arrest and education on current findings in heart disease related data.

What is your favorite advocacy memory or experience so far and what made it great?

My favorite memory and experience was attending the Advocacy meeting In Washington D.C. earlier this year. I was inspired and motivated by working with such a strong representation from the great Midwest affiliate, both as advocates and the AHA staff who attended. Loved advocating with some very great people, including very positive youth. What a tremendous group of individuals who had herculean impact.

What is your favorite way to be active?

By doing a variety of activities with the AHA where I can be most helptul. There is no one single activity I prefer, as long as I am impacting people’s lives for the better. Whether it’s transportation or heart related activities, I love it all!

What is your favorite fruit or vegetable?

Favorite fruit/vegtable is an APPLE.