It started with shortness of breath. It is now a mission to spread awareness.
May Perez Johnson, manager of the Regions Tamiami Banking Center in Miami, began to notice she was lightheaded and needed more time to catch her breath after exercising. May, who grew up knowing she had a congenital disease, went to the doctor but initially declined a cardiac test after receiving a clean bill of heart health the year before. After agreeing to get checked again, doctors diagnosed severe stenosis of her aortic valve, which required an immediate operation.
Now, two years after open heart surgery, she joined hundreds to take part in the 2025 Miami-Dade Heart Walk bringing together survivors, families and community leaders to support the American Heart Association and raise awareness about heart disease.
I love to see communities come together of all ages walking through here just to make awareness of heart disease and how important it is for everybody to talk about this so we can see more survivors every year.
May Perez Johnson, manager of the Regions Tamiami Banking Center in Miami
“I’m happy to support the mission of the American Heart Association. I love to see communities come together of all ages walking through here just to make awareness of heart disease and how important it is for everybody to talk about this so we can see more survivors every year,” she told WPLG-TV. “It is so imperative that we get checked out early on.”
During the live television interview, she spoke about being joined by her colleagues and friends from Regions Bank.
“The Miami-Dade Heart Walk reflects what Regions stands for — showing up for our communities and supporting the people who make them stronger,” said Tammi Calvo-Sanchez, Miami-Dade market executive for Regions Bank. She also took part. “Seeing our associates walk together, share personal stories like May’s and help raise awareness about heart health is a powerful reminder that making life better starts with caring for one another.”
Regions’ involvement in the Miami-Dade Heart Walk began in 2024, when Wayne Thompson and other bank associates organized in memory of Roshana Gossoff, a beloved colleague whose sudden passing from a heart attack at 35 inspired teammates to take action and honor her legacy. That first walk united colleagues, family members and friends around a shared mission — one that continues to guide Regions’ participation today.
The Miami-Dade Heart Walk reflects what Regions stands for — showing up for our communities and supporting the people who make them stronger.
Tammi Calvo-Sanchez, Miami-Dade market executive for Regions Bank
“There’s no age for this,” May said. “It’s family history, when you go to the doctor, they’re always asking you. Just keep aware of this, talk about it, nothing to be ashamed about.”
May was cheered on by her daughters who also participated. In addition to the walk, experts offered CPR training, nutrition education and wellness resources aimed at turning bystanders into lifesavers and promoting healthier lifestyles. Organizers say this year’s event raised more than $440,000.
