Story of Hope told by Mary Jane Bailey

We were vacationing in the Poconos when my daughter Emily started complaining about bad headaches, took some medicine and went to bed. When she got up to go to the bathroom later that night, she couldn't walk or see.

Emily, 10, was paralyzed on her left side.

We rushed her to the hospital. Doctors told us she'd suffered a stroke. I was shocked. I didn't know that children her age could have strokes.

After a week in the hospital and more than three months of physical and occupational therapy, Emily regained her vision and most of the movement on her left side.

The director of the hospital's stroke team told me that they received grants from the American Heart Association. They invited Emily to be a part of their Heart Walk team. We had so much fun. The next year, Emily wanted to put her own team together because she loved the Walk and knew the money she was raising would help people like her.

Emily has been hospitalized three times since her stroke two years ago. Recently she suffered a setback when she had a seizure and couldn't walk, but she's doing much better. Her left side is still a little weak, but she is looking forward to attending the Heart Walk this year with family and friends.

We've received many phone calls and letters from strangers who say that Emily's resilience and upbeat attitude has inspired them to overcome obstacles in their lives. And we've met many warm, encouraging friends at the American Heart Association. I could never be the strong advocate I am without the association's support. Now I understand the importance of research –- it helps give children like Emily a future.

Donate today to help people like Emily, sign up to learn CPR or get involved with one of our many causes, like Go Red For Women or Start! Heart Walk.