At just 40 years old, Deborah suffered a heart attack. Doctors told her that 25
percent of her heart muscle was affected and without a heart transplant, she was
unlikely to live another 10 years.
Over 20 years later, Deborah is active and works at a Ross Dress for Less store,
thanks to the American Heart Association’s funding of a new procedure called “Map
and Zap.” The innovative procedure repaired her heart without a transplant.
This experience has made Deborah even more engaged in the work Ross does to raise
money and awareness on behalf of the American Heart Association. As Team Captain
of her store’s annual fundraising campaign, Deborah is a true inspiration for her
colleagues and customers. She invites customers to contribute at checkout by playing
the song “Staying Alive,” while also organizing car washes and other events.