Keynote Speaker
Kathy Wistrom
Kathy Sasse Wistrom has been a busy lady these past 64 years!
She's been a wife for 44 years, a mother for 42, a teacher for 30, a business owner for 8, a grandmother for 7, and a motivational speaker for the past 10. She even worked for the CIA during her college years. Her book, Mrs. Wistrom's ABC's: What I Learned Raising Three All-Americans, was mentioned by John Madden on Monday Night Football as a book "all parents should read." Campbell’s Soup named her an “NFL Chunky Mama” and she was a guest on the Jane Pauley Show. Today, she and her husband, Ron, live on Grand Lake in Grove, Oklahoma where she is part owner of a gift shop, The Wax Bucket. Of all her experiences, Kathy will tell you that being a mother to three boys has been her most rewarding occupation; however, living in a house full of men, she also knows that women get thrown into the role of Super Woman and often forget that even Super Woman needs to take off her cape now and then. Enjoy a "Heart to Heart" visit with Kathy as she gives you a humorous look at how women today can have it all as long as they are willing to think more with their heads instead of their hearts!
Our Survivor
Amy Moran
Amy Moran, 34, from Springfield, MO, is happily married to Ben, is the loving mother of two young boys (Brendan and Dylan), and is a dedicated guidance counselor at Kickapoo High School. Diagnosed in college with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, Amy has come to recognize that each new day is a blessing to be cherished and lived to the fullest.
From childhood, Amy longed to be a mom someday – a dream inspired, in part, by the incredible bond she shared with her own mother. After delivering her second son, Dylan, Amy nearly died. While her life was ultimately spared, Amy’s health continued to decline in the months following Dylan’s birth. A major heart surgery was her only hope – and Amy will never forget the pain of leaving her young children in the care of family members without knowing if she would survive and return from the hospital.
American Heart Association-funded research led to the treatment that saved Amy’s life. The Moran’s know that ongoing research will save the lives of others, too – possibly their own son. Amy’s heart condition is genetic, and the Moran’s recently learned that their oldest son, Brendan, inherited the gene which puts him at a higher risk for developing the same condition.
Today, immediately after hearing Amy’s story, you’ll have an opportunity to give generously from your heart. Your financial gift will enable the work of the American Heart Association to continue. To donate, please fill out the pledge card on your table. When directed by the emcee, raise your pledge card high so that a volunteer can personally collect your gift and thank you for your generosity.
We appreciate your support! Because of you, people like Amy and her son will have an opportunity to live a long and full life!
