Credit: Heart.org
ESTILL, S.C. — The American Heart Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, was honored to have 17-year-old local heart hero Mac Gohagan share his remarkable story with students at Patrick Henry Academy. The school recently launched the Association’s annual Kids Heart Challenge initiative, which will run through February.
Mac’s story began in the spring of 2024, when he came home from football practice feeling unusually winded. Initially, he thought it was just due to being out of shape. The following day, however, he experienced a fever of 102°F, vomiting, and severe pain. His pediatrician referred him to a pediatric hospital and it was soon discovered that Mac had an enlarged heart. It wasn’t long before the Gohagan family learned that Mac was experiencing heart failure. After further testing, he was diagnosed with Becker Muscular Dystrophy and told he would need a heart transplant. Just 45 days after being admitted to the ICU, Mac underwent a successful transplant.
“I’m just happy to be here and I hope sharing my story helps others,” Mac said. “Before my transplant, my heart was only working at 11%. It’s amazing to be able to stand here today.”
The Association’s school-based program, Kids Heart Challenge/American Heart Challenge, offers a variety of physical activities to get elementary and middle school students’ hearts pumping. Through the initiative, the American Heart Association offers activities such as dance, basketball and jump rope paired with Finn’s Mission. In this online component, students can earn digital badges for learning life-saving skills like Hands-Only CPR™ ,how to spot a stroke, ways to combat stress, and ideas for healthy eating. The program has nearly 50 years of proven success rooted in scientific research that shows that kids who are regularly active feel better, have improved mental health, self-esteem, and decrease and prevent conditions such as anxiety and depression.
“The American Heart Association is deeply committed to our youth through our in-school programs,” said Rachel Stanely, school engagement director for the American Heart Association. “These programs are essential because they equip young people with the knowledge and habits needed to lead heart-healthy lives. We appreciate Mac sharing his journey as part of our program this year.”
Patrick Henry Academy has participated in the Kids Heart Challenge/American Heart Challenge for several years, raising almost $14,000 for the American Heart Association during their involvement. This year, it will mean a little more.
“We are proud of Mac and excited to host Kids Heart Challenge in his honor this year,” said Kelsey Swaim, PE teacher at Patrick Henry Academy. “We are a close-knit community and it means so much to hear the inspiring story from someone we know personally.”
To learn more about the Kids Heart Challenge/American Heart Challenge or to enroll your school to participate, visit www.heart.org/getstarted.
