A Story from the Heart - featuring ShantaQuilette Carter Williams

At 39, I thought I was doing everything right—running daily, eating well, staying active. But in 2018, after my usual run, I had a heart attack. Nine months later, I collapsed from a stroke.

The signs had been there—stomach pain, nausea, palpitations—but I ignored them. Behind my healthy habits were high blood pressure and high cholesterol, silent risks that changed everything.

Recovery meant years of rehab, but it taught me what matters most: being here for my family. Now, I take intentional steps every day—tracking my vitals, staying active, meditating, and resting when I need to.

I “live to the beat” by putting my health first, sharing my story to inspire others, and spending as much time as possible with the people I love.

If you, or someone close to you, wants to share a Story from the Heart, we’d love to hear it. Please fill out this form to be considered for this series.