Follow the personal journey of three courageous women in St. Louis as they overcome heart obstacles and share their stories on women’s health.
Heart health is a multifaceted journey, often marked by resilience, advocacy, and unexpected challenges. Through the experiences of Debora Grandison, Ebony Smith-Thomas, and Megan Corbin, we witness the diverse faces of heart disease and the profound impact it can have on individuals’ lives. Debora’s 35-year battle against heart disease, coupled with her commitment to advocacy and policy work, highlights the importance of perseverance and community support in navigating this journey. Ebony’s journey through peripartum cardiomyopathy sheds light on the disparities in heart health, particularly among African American women, underscoring the critical need for awareness and education. Meanwhile, Megan’s unexpected heart attack at the age of 30 serves as a poignant reminder that heart disease can affect anyone, regardless of age or outward appearance.
Debora Grandison
Together, their stories offer valuable insights into the complexities of heart health and the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding one’s well being. Debora Grandison, a 35-year survivor of heart disease, Type-1 diabetes, and Graves Disease, navigated a challenging path to healing, enduring 20 years of misdiagnosed heart issues. Now equipped with an insulin pump and pacemaker, she lives purposefully, advocating for others through speaking engagements on local, national, and global platforms.
As a member of theAHA Health Equity Research Network and a core investigator at the University of Pennsylvania’s AMETHIST initiative, she channels her experiences into policy and advocacy work. Founder of “SHE SPEAKS FROM A JOYFUL HEART,” Debora uses her platform to inspire through poetry, scripture, and prayer, emphasizing the healing power of words. Her journey of faith and resilience fuels her mission to help others “Rise Above” adversity, a message she shares in her debut book, “His Poetry, Her Story,” available online and at book signings. Visit her website, fromajoyfulheart.com, for more information. Deborah was the recipient of the Real Women 2019/ Go Red For Women.
Ebony Smith-Thomas
Ebony Smith-Thomas, a 39-year-old single mother from St. Louis, Missouri, defied odds since childhood, overcoming lead poisoning and excelling academically despite initial prognoses. Her life took a drastic turn after experiencing peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) post-pregnancy, leading to heart failure. Despite a harrowing journey battling heart failure until her heart transplant in August 2020, followed by further surgeries, Ebony remains resilient. She’s now committed to raising awareness about PPCM, particularly prevalent among African American women, through her organization, “iHeartUniversity.” With a vision to promote healthy hearts and advocate for organ donation, Ebony aims to make a difference in her community’s health. Follow her journey on Facebook for insights and advocacy efforts. Ebony was the recipient of the 2022 Go Red For Women Luncheon.
Megan Corbin
Megan Corbin’s journey through heart disease serves as a powerful reminder that it can affect anyone, regardless of their outward appearance or perceived health. At just 30 years old, Megan experienced a heart attack, shocking both herself and her loved ones. Despite her background as a professional dancer and her youthful vigor, Megan’s heart attack underscored the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of heart disease. Her determination to overcome the obstacles placed before her, from signing consent forms for life-saving procedures to eventually returning to dance and fulfilling her dream of opening her own studio, speaks volumes about her resilience and spirit. Megan’s story serves as an inspiration, urging others to prioritize their heart health and to be vigilant about their well-being. Megan was the recipient of the Real Women 2021/ Go Red For Women.
The story of Debora Grandison, Ebony Smith-Thomas, and Megan Corbin serves as a powerful inspiration for all women, transcending racial and cultural boundaries, to take control of their health and become their own advocates. Their resilience in the face of heart disease challenges stereotypes and demonstrates that anyone can be affected, regardless of race or background.
By sharing their experiences and advocating for awareness and education, these women empower others to prioritize their heart health, recognize warning signs, and seek proper medical care. Their stories emphasize the importance of listening to one’s body, advocating for oneself in healthcare settings, and fostering a supportive community for health and well-being. Ultimately, their journey serves as a beacon of hope and empowerment, encouraging all women to take proactive steps towards better heart health and overall wellness.
