OVERLAND PARK, Kan. — Five years ago, Nicole Herring lost control of her future. During her “Friendsgiving” gathering, she experienced severe chest pain, was admitted to the emergency room, and was diagnosed with spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD).

According to the American Heart Association, SCAD is a condition in which tears form in the walls of heart arteries, blocking or slowing blood flow to the heart.

“It’s spontaneous, it can happen at any time, it can happen to anyone,” Herring said. “I’ve been on a journey to live life to the fullest. I’ve lost about 130 pounds so far. I’ve joined a gym, done everything I can to be great, love myself and help others. I also try to help other people.”

According to the American Heart Association, SCAD primarily affects women in their 40s and 50s. Additional risk factors are seen in women of color. On average, 1 in 16 Hispanic women over the age of 20 has coronary heart disease.

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Herring, who is Hispanic and Native American, said she never thought she was at high risk for heart disease, but the experience taught her to listen to her body.

“It’s all about knowing your body and paying attention to what’s changing,” Herring says. “I ignored it for hours, thinking I was just having heartburn.”

Looking toward a new future, Ms. Herring is working with the American Heart Association as a female ambassador. She said she hopes her story will inspire others to pay attention to her mental health and take care of her body.