When Angela Parrott stepped inside the studio to speak about SADS (Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndrome), emotions ran high. She's a parent on a mission, with a heart-wrenching story about her 10-year-old son, Devon.

She painted a grim picture that any parent can sympathize with as she walked us through the discovery process of finding out that her child has SADS. SADS is a genetic heart disease that causes unexpected death and affects infants and children, as well as adults. As she fought back her tears, breaking momentarily to wipe her eyes, she tried to compose herself by chiming in with happy memories to force a smile upon her face. After all, she realizes that as upset as she feels, she's one of the lucky ones. She still has her son.

Angela's sole purpose for her visit is to inform the public of the upcoming Devon's Beat 5K Walk/Run. This event not only raises awareness for SADS, but offers free heart screenings for children - screenings that could help save lives by testing kids for a disease that, more often than not, goes undetected until it's too late.

Devon's Beat 5K Walk/Run - Saturday, April 2

  • 7:00 -11:00 AM Breakfast Fundraiser (Foster Hall - Lincoln, MO)
  • 8:00 AM Registration
  • 9:00 AM - 5K Begins
  • 10:00 AM - Kids 100 Yard Dash
  • 10:30 AM - Awards
  • 6:30 PM - Silent Auction and Dance (VFW Post 5925 - Lincoln, MO) - All proceeds to benefit Devon's Beat for heart screenings

As Angela exited the studio, she thanked us for helping her get the word out. I couldn't help but appreciate the fact that this woman, a mother who is suffering daily,was able to strap on a smile and thank us for our time. A big thank you to you, Angela, for having the strength to not only get through each day, but to also worry about and help your community.

If you'd like more information about SADS it can be found at SADS Foundation.

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