WHAT DRIVES US - American Heart Association

Mycle Brandy is so driven in his support for the American Stroke Association that
he refused to be driven. Instead, he walked … and walked … and walked. For 238
days, Mycle made his way across America to raise awareness and raise funds for
our lifesaving mission.
A 2,934-mile walk is an accomplishment for anyone, but even more impressive
when you consider that 59-year-old Mycle is a four-time stroke survivor who uses
a cane when he walks and still has weakness on his right side.
“I needed to raise awareness that you cannot live a sedentary lifestyle,” said Mycle,
who wore out 16 pairs of shoes while persevering through tornadoes, snowstorms
and lightning. “People have to get off the couch and start walking.”
He spread that message and educated people about the early warning signs of stroke
while raising more than $10,000 for the American Heart Association and American
Stroke Association.
Shortly after Mycle wrapped up his trek from Southern California to Washington,
D.C., 18-year-old American Heart Association volunteer Alli Koch was setting out
on her own cross-country adventure.
She hopped on her bike in International Falls, Minn., and kept on going until she hit
Brownsville, Texas, on the Mexican border. During her 27-day voyage, Alli covered
2,200 miles, raised more than $6,100, and spread the word about physical activity
and heart health.
She fought through harsh winds and blistering heat. She even challenged
herself further by completing two triathlons along the way.
“It was a struggle, but I could not quit, because it was not about me but about
helping other people,” she said. “I met one man who was so thankful I
was raising money for the AHA, because he had a 3-year-old son who
had a heart defect. Stories like his were what kept me going.”