It’s feeling the pride and honor of knowing I have a hand in helping heart attack and stroke survivors be with their families.

Just after my 16th birthday, I suddenly lost my father to heart disease and my grandmother to a stroke — only an hour apart from one another. At that time, CPR was not widely used by the general public, lifesaving public access defibrillators were non-existent and clot-busting drugs such as tPA had yet to be discovered. Because of research funded by the American Heart Association, systems of healthcare have been implemented in our local communities, new treatment guidelines are available to healthcare professionals, automated external defibrillators are placed in public places, CPR is widely taught, and clot-busting drugs are readily available. Because I missed out on so much time with my own dad, it moves me incredibly to see a young father or mother spending time with their families after surviving a heart attack or stroke.

An opportunity for growth presents itself at the American Heart Association every day. I appreciate the variety of trainings, conferences and workshops our organization offers employees such as leadership development, volunteer management, diversity and cultural competence training.

We are a tightly knit family that extends to our community partners, survivors and caregivers. Most of us have been affected by heart disease and/or stroke and share a common goal. It’s exciting to work with so many people who have a variety of strengths and skills and to have the opportunity to collaborate and network daily. Locally, we take time out each July to host a fun filled New Year event. That’s not a typo - we celebrate our fiscal year. It is a great way to honor the successes we accomplished the previous fiscal year and get our game on to conquer the new fiscal year.

I enjoy going to work every day! It is truly rewarding working for the American Heart Association.  As a Regional Health Equity Director I have the opportunity to help improve the health and well-being of American Indians and Alaska Natives.  Through our programs such as the Go Red For Women Storyteller Guide: American Indian and Alaska Native Heart Health Resource, Get With the Guidelines patient management tools and advocacy, we are truly building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.

Mashell has been with the American Heart Association since 2000:
Health Initiatives Specialist, Heartland Affiliate
Community Heart and Stroke Director, Heartland Affiliate
State Health Alliance Director, Heartland Affiliate
Senior Director of Cause Initiatives, South Central Affiliate
Regional Health Equity Director, South Central Affiliate