2 widowmaker heart attacks in 1 day—how to save lives like this local veteran’s during the May 11 Huntsville Heart Walk

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An active weightlifter and army vet, Clayton Hinchman never expected his heart would stop two times by the age of 38.

Read on for his inspiring story and how you can help save lives by signing up for the Huntsville Heart Walk benefiting the American Heart Association (AHA) on Saturday, May 11.

Clayton’s heart journey

After fighting his way back from a near-fatal war injury, Clayton retired from the military, got married, had two daughters and became CEO of his own company—Ignite Impossible in Huntsville.

But three years ago, death stepped upon Clayton’s doorstep—twice in one day.

During a typical day at work—at age 38—he suffered a massive heart attack. CPR was performed until help could arrive.

When he woke up at the hospital, doctors thought Clayton was in the clear.

But moments later, he flatlined again—taking eight full minutes to be revived. 

Later, he learned he’d had a widowmaker heart attack—or blockage in one of the arteries around the heart.

Immediate treatment is crucial for survival. 

The most incredible part? Clayton survived and suffered no scarring in his heart. 

Warning signs + what to do

Looking back, Clayton said there were indicators that his heart was struggling.

“There were warning signs that I neglected. The things I should have gotten checked—I ignored.

Men are like, ‘I’ll just rub some dirt on it and deal with it.’ 

That was my approach and that was, obviously, the very worst approach.”

Clayton Hinchman, CEO, Ignite Impossible

Along with genetics playing a role in heart problems and stroke, many external factors do too, such as:

• Excessive alcohol use
• Smoking
• Poor diet
• Lack of exercise

What’s Clayton’s advice?

“Listen to your body and the warning signs of what’s happening.

Just because you look healthy on the outside doesn’t mean you are healthy on the inside.”

Clayton Hinchman, CEO, Ignite Impossible

Warning signs of a heart attack from the American Heart Association

• Chest discomfort that lasts more than a few minutes or goes away + returns.
• Discomfort in other areas of the upper body, including arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach. 
• Shortness of breath. 
• Other signs such as nausea, lightheadedness or breaking out in a cold sweat.

If you or another person experience any of the symptoms above, the American Heart Association suggests calling 9-1-1.

You can help save lives by signing up for the Huntsville Heart Walk benefiting the American Heart Association on Saturday, May 11.

American Heart Association celebrates 100 years in 2024

Thanks to a century of the AHA’s research and life-saving medical breakthroughs, lives like Clayton’s, and countless more, have been saved.

Here are some things to know about the AHA:

• It was founded in 1924 by 6 cardiologists.
• It’s the nation’s oldest + largest voluntary organizations dedicated to fighting heart disease + stroke.
• It has invested billions in research so people can prevent, live with, manage or recover from heart conditions.

How you can help keep hearts beating in Huntsville + beyond

Want to help protect the hearts of those you love as well as your own? 

A great way to do it is to sign up for an upcoming AHA Heart Walk.

On Saturday, May 11, the AHA will host the Huntsville Heart Walk at Big Spring Park.

By signing up as an individual or a team, you’ll be helping save lives. 

Plus, it’s fun!

You may even see Clayton and his company’s Heart Team volunteering during the event. 

Along with raising funds and awareness, they have a special goal to honor AHA’s century celebration—get 100 teams to sign up for the Heart Walk in Huntsville. 

“The AHA has done a phenomenal job of raising funds and awareness for individuals with stroke and heart-related issues or illnesses. 

I am very proud to take time to fundraise and help this worthy cause.”

Clayton Hickman, CEO, Ignite Impossible

Sign up for the Huntsville Heart Walk benefiting the American Heart Association

• Where: Big Spring Park, 200 Church St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801
• When: Saturday, May 11, 2024 | Walk begins at 9AM
• Cost: Free to walk + fundraise
• Register | Friday, May 10 is the last day to register online, but you can also sign up at the event
• Bonus: Dogs are welcome, but must remain on a leash.

To learn more about the American Heart Association, visit their website or follow them on Facebook + Instagram.

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