Please note that English muffin orders are shipped Monday-Wednesday and should be placed before 2:00pm EST for same or next day shipment. *WE SHIP NATIONWIDE!*

American Heart Month: Olivia's Story

It was during a routine check up when I was 9 months old when the doctors detected my abnormally slow heart rate, which led to my diagnoses of 3rd degree heart block. 
 
At the age of 2, I was admitted into the hospital for my first pacemaker surgery at Westchester Medical Center. Since pacemakers are battery powered devices, they require recurring surgeries to replace the battery and leads.
 
As such, the following 3 surgeries that I've had thus far have taken place at the Maria Fareri Children's Hospital, which was being renovated during my first procedure. 
 
Pictured below you can see photos from each surgery that I've had thus far: Olivia Surgeries
As I’ve grown older and become more connected to myself, my story, and who I am, I feel increasingly grateful for the amazing doctors and technology that have gifted me with the opportunity to live, essentially unaffected by my condition. My pacemaker has never held me back, it has only pushed me forward.

I believe that my medical experiences have helped shape me into who I am today. I lead my life with a positive attitude, confident mindset, and try my best to take nothing for granted.

Further, my story has allowed me to form another perspective on life as well as a connection to others with health conditions that are both milder and more severe than mine. I believe that I was given a second chance for a reason, and I keep that at the forefront of my mind.

Giving Back

INTERNSHIP. In 2015 as a senior in high school, I had the opportunity to participate in an internship program during my last trimester. I decided to work with the marketing team at the Maria Fareri Children's Hospital where I helped to organize events like the ribbon cutting for their new oncology unit, and fundraisers like their Miracle Treat Day.

Maria Fareri Children's Hospital Internship

GIRLS' NIGHT OUT. Girls' Night Out is a fashion and beauty event that brings awareness to women's heart health that benefits the WMCHealth's Heart & Vascular Institute.
 
For the 2015 fundraiser, I was invited to be one of the patients showcased in the fashion show, modeling activewear. Below, you can see me (2nd in from the right), posing with other featured patients and healthcare providers who have also been impacted by various heart conditions.
Girls' Night Out Fundraiser
For this years Girls' Night Out, we donated a basket of our sourdough English muffins and select add-on items to be part of their auction! This really came full circle for me.
Dam Good English Muffins Donation basket for Girls Night Out fundraiser
100.7 WHUD RADIOTHON. As a longtime patient of the Maria Fareri Children's Hospital, I was invited to share my story on air during their 100.7 WHUD Radiothon event two times (pictured below). This allowed me the opportunity to share more about my story as well as my amazing experiences at the hospital, in the hopes that listeners would donate money.
On a separate occasion, Denise and I were invited into their recording studio to record a montage that they play on the Radiothon each year. Because I am older, I no longer go on air, however they still reach out to me every year for an update that they share with their listeners on air. This event takes place in late November every year, so be sure to tune in next year and keep an ear out for my story! This year, someone placed an order after hearing the hosts give my update on air, when I mentioned my work at Dam Good™ English muffins!
100.7 WHUD Radiothon
THE RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE OF THE HUDSON VALLEY. So you know, The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) is located on the Westchester Medical Center campus, where the Maria Fareri Children's Hospital is, and provides a temporary home for families of critically ill children.
 
In 2021, we began our partnership with RMH to stock their fridge with our English muffins for their guests to enjoy. It warms my heart that we are able to provide our products to the families of RMH, who are going through very challenging times of their lives. Whether for breakfast, lunch, dinner or a snack in between, we hope we bring some goodness into their day. 
 
Pictured below is me and Denise at the RMH while dropping off our first donation of our Dam Good™ English Muffins: 
Denise and Olivia at the Ronald McDonald House
My heart condition has opened many doors throughout my life thus far and I look forward to remaining an active participant within the community.
 
I am forever grateful for the technology, doctors, nurses and hospitable staff that I've been fortunate enough to encounter throughout my medical journey at the Maria Fareri Children's Hospital. With that said, I hope you're inclined to give back through purchasing our English muffins and/or making a donation below. Every dollar counts. 
 
Best,
Olivia, operations manager
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For AMERICAN HEART MONTH (February), 10% of all sales from our "Original White" variety will be donated to the American Heart Association

As a mother daughter duo in business who both suffer from severe heart conditions, we were inclined to activate this fundraiser to Do Dam Good™ not only by donating money, but also by raising awareness about women's cardiovascular issues through sharing our stories. - Denise (owner) and Olivia Weale (operations manager)

Support Cardiovascular Health

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