For many years my heart patients have been asking me a question that still catches me unguarded:
"How can I give something back for the precious second chance I have been given?"
The sincerity and eagerness with which they come to me and their genuine desire to do something to express their gratitude always gives me pause. It is a true testament to the human spirit to see a patient not simply recover, but embrace life with renewed energy and hope. When a patient asks me how they can help others, I know my work is all but done.
The Gift of the Heart Foundation was founded in response to the many people who wanted to find a way to give back. Since the Foundation opened its doors in 1999, we have enjoyed the kind support of many individuals who have encouraged both our research projects and our educational mission -- and whose generosity has made it possible for us to dream bigger than we ever imagined.
The exciting launch of the California Heart Center represents the fulfillment of a dream to create a truly integrated approach to cardiovascular medicine. But perhaps more importantly, the Center is a tribute to all of the people who paved the way with unfaltering hope and the certainty that together we could make a difference.
And so, together, we shall...
--- Dr. Jon Kobashigawa
