Did you know aortic aneurysms are the 13th leading cause of death in the United States, contributing to 15,000 to 20,000 deaths each year? An aortic aneurysm is a widening of the aorta, the main vessel that sends blood away from the heart to the rest of the body. Aneurysms can lead to tears or “dissections” in the aorta, a condition which “Three’s Company” star John Ritter brought awareness to when he died prematurely of a dissection in 2003. Founded by his widow, the John Ritter Foundation is devoted to improving the identification of persons at risk for aortic dissections and improving treatment through medical research. Words for Good® encourages you to learn more about your aortic health, as we are personally reminded of the importance of this issue by our friend Caroline Gredler of Fishers, Indiana. Please join us in cheering on Caroline and supporting the John Ritter Foundation as she runs the New York City Marathon this Sunday in memory of her late husband.
