Houston Celebrates Two Heart Transplant Recipients during American Heart Month
In a heartwarming ceremony held at Triumphant Church in Houston, Texas, two remarkable women were honored for their resilience and strength after battling heart failure. Courtney Hicks-Brown and Cande Calhoun, both heart transplant recipients, are now dedicated to raising awareness about this life-threatening disease, just in time for American Heart Month.
Heart failure is a widespread issue in the United States, affecting approximately 6.2 million people, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, these two incredible women have defied the odds and emerged as beacons of hope for others facing similar struggles.
Courtney Hicks-Brown, who has been living with a failing heart for over a decade, expressed her deep gratitude for the past two years since receiving a new heart. Overwhelmed with emotion, she sometimes finds it difficult to put her feelings into words. “I didn’t think that I would be the one needing a new heart or having a testimony strong enough to share with the world, but here I am,” said Hicks-Brown. Her journey has been a testament to the strength of the human spirit.
Alongside Hicks-Brown, Cande Calhoun was also celebrated for her unwavering determination. Calhoun revealed that her turning point came when she surrendered to God and expressed gratitude for the life she had. Little did she know that her prayers would soon be answered. “All this time I thought I was waiting on God, but God was waiting on me,” shared Calhoun. She is now celebrating her five-year Transplantaversary and encourages others to have faith and prioritize their health.
Both women stressed the importance of regular check-ups and maintaining good cardiovascular health. Calhoun emphasized the need to see cardiologists, manage blood pressure levels, and do everything possible to stay healthy. “We must fight with all our might to preserve our well-being,” she urged.
The road to recovery has been long and challenging for both Hicks-Brown and Calhoun, but they credit their success to the support of their loved ones. Hicks-Brown expressed her gratitude to her “village,” stating that they are the reason she is here today. This reminder highlights the significance of having a strong support system during difficult times.
As American Heart Month continues, the stories of Courtney Hicks-Brown and Cande Calhoun serve as inspiration for those facing heart failure. Their resilience, faith, and commitment to raising awareness about this debilitating condition are a testament to the power of the human spirit. Let us celebrate their triumphs and join them in spreading awareness about heart health throughout the month of February and beyond.
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