Hi, my name is Tara Heiselman, and I am 49 years old. I have never asked for help before, I have always worked hard and taken care of myself. But after a great deal if reflection, Ive realized that accepting help when you truly need it takes courage too, and right now, I need it.  My heart condition began back in 2001, from the beginning my cardiologist was honest with me. He told me that my tricuspid valve would worst enemy over time and one day I would need surgery. For over two decades I managed and kept working and kept going but that day has now come. On April 22nd I will be undergoing open heart surgery to repair- or if necessary, replace- my tricuspid heart valve.  Over the past few years my Pullmanary hypertension and heart failure have worsened significantly due to a damaged heart valve and I have been unable to work this past year. As a supervisor who has spent my career being dependable and hardworking, stepping away has been one of the hardest things I've had to do. I am a mother of four grown sons, and like any mom, I have always wanted to be strong for my family. I am a woman of faith, and my relationship with God has been my anchor through all of this.  The surgery itself is a major procedure with a three month recovery period and theres a lot of expenses. My refrigerator broke and needs to be replaced so I can prepare healthy meals while I heal. I will need grab bars and other home modifications to move safely in my home as well as loose- fittitting clothing and button up shirts required after open heart surgery. Cardiac rehab involves multiple appointments per week and many follow-up doctor visits. Gas is an expense I need help covering. My heat, hot water, and stove all run on propanr, which is an ongoing bill I have been struggling to keep up with.  On the other side of this surgery, I am genuinely hipeful. I look forward to feeling better, regaining my strength, and returning to work- even if part time at first. I believe God has carried me this far and will carry me through this too.  Any amount- truly, any amount- means more to me than words can express. I am deeply grateful to every person who reads my story, shares it, or contributes. Your kindness gives me strength as I head into one of the biggest challenges of my life.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart. ❤