Advocate Spotlight: Mallory Jones
Hello, my name is Mallory Jones, and I am honored to share my story with you. Myjourney with the American Heart Association (AHA) has been rooted in my life-changingexperience that has fueled my passion for heart health advocacy.
In January 2021, during a junior high school volleyball game, I suddenly becamedisoriented, short of breath, and eventually collapsed. After being rushed to theemergency room, I was diagnosed with Wolff-Parkinson White syndrome at theKentucky Children’s Hospital Congenital Heart Clinic. Following extensive testing, it wasdiscovered that I had Non-Classical Wolff-Parkinson White due to an additional Noda Ventricular accessory pathway. Although it was a rare condition and couldn’t be ablateddue to its location and potential risk, the team assured me that I could lead a healthyand active life by taking good care of my heart and leading a heart-healthy lifestyle.
Living with a congenital heart disease has made me acutely aware of the silent yetdeadly nature of heart disease. This realization ignited a passion within me to educate,advocate, and fundraise to end heart disease through my initiative, “Be Smart. Love YourHeart!” This cause is deeply personal, driven by my own experiences and a commitmentto make a difference. Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women, andmy goal is to create a heart-healthy community by promoting public policy andengaging Kentucky communities in heart health programs.
As a health ambassador with the AHA, I have worked directly with legislators, testifiedbefore the House Health Services Committee, and supported initiatives like House Bill11, which raises the minimum age for purchasing tobacco products to 21. I also played asmall part in the passage of HB169, expanding the requirement for Cardiac EmergencyResponse Plans and AEDs to elementary schools and securing $2.5 million in funding forthe “AED Fund.”
In addition to my advocacy work, I have been actively involved in various AHA events. Ihave had the honor of singing the national anthem at multiple American HeartAssociation events, performing the theme song for Go Red for Women Luncheons, andtelling my story as part of the AHA’s 100 Survivors Centennial Celebration. I have alsovolunteered at heart walks and spent time yodeling and singing for medical staff andfundraisers. These experiences have allowed me to use both my story and my talent toengage and inspire others to prioritize heart health.
The AHA has taught me the importance of heart health awareness, early screenings, andcommunity support. I have seen firsthand the impactful work they do and lovesupporting their mission. Through their programs and initiatives, I have learned valuableskills and gained experiences that have shaped my advocacy efforts.
After my diagnosis, I discovered my passion for advocacy and sharing my talent. Idecided to try pageants as a way to do both. I got involved with the Miss AmericaOrganization and am currently Miss Danville’s Teen, competing this summer for MissKentucky’s Teen. Through this platform, I proudly highlight my initiative, “Be Smart. LoveYour Heart!” The partnership between the AHA and the Miss America Organization isimportant to me, and I am proud to be part of both.
Through “Be Smart. Love Your Heart!” I aim to create a lasting impact. With the rightknowledge and resources, anyone can learn to save a life with Hands-Only CPR in just90 seconds. This simple skill can mean the difference between life and death.Heart health is a community-wide issue that requires collective action. By raisingawareness, advocating for policy changes, and promoting preventive measures, we cancreate a healthier future for everyone. Join me in the fight against heart disease -remember, “Be Smart. Love Your Heart!” for a brighter, healthier future.
