Given a 50/50 chance of surviving heart failure, Jerad Green took his diagnosis to heart. What changes had an impact, and why did his skin color matter?

Jerad has always been an advocate for issues affecting health, but recently he has brought the issue to the forefront with his own health issues.His story is one of overcoming adversity and turning to focus on taking care of yourself and the people around you.

Jerad Green’s journey with congestive heart failure began with misdiagnosed symptoms and a difficult path to proper treatment. With the support of his wife and a dedicated care team, he regained his health, received an ICD, and now advocates for better heart failure care—especially in underserved Black communities.

A heart failure diagnosis can significantly change the trajectory of your life; however, you can still live a happy and whole life! It doesn’t have to be a punishment or a death sentence. I believe food is medicine, so what better way to step into this journey than to talk about the food we eat?