Opportunity in Jamie Foxx’s Story –
How the Black Heart Association is Taking Action
Jamie Foxx’s recent Netflix special, What Had Happened Was, gave audiences a glimpse into his near-fatal medical emergency — a moment that profoundly reshaped his life. His story of survival is both moving and powerful, serving as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of prioritizing our health.
At the Black Heart Association (BHA), we see stories like Foxx’s as opportunities to educate and empower communities to take control of their health. Our mission is to eliminate heart health disparities in communities of color through advocacy, prevention, and accessible care.
As our founder, Tara Robinson, a three-time heart attack survivor, so poignantly said:
“Jamie Foxx’s testimony is exactly what the #BeHere campaign by the Black Heart Association is all about — the moments that premature death robs from so many of us. His story is a powerful reminder that life is precious and fragile, and it highlights the importance of prioritizing our health.
Too often, we ignore the warning signs—our blood pressure, diabetes, kidney health, weight, nutrition, and stress — until it’s too late. By neglecting these critical aspects of our health, we’re not just risking our lives; we’re setting ourselves up to miss the moments that matter most: our kids walking down the aisle, holding our grandchildren, celebrating milestones with loved ones.”
A Call to Action:
Prioritizing Health to #BeHere
Foxx’s story aligns with the heart of BHA’s #BeHere campaign, a movement to inspire individuals to take control of their health for themselves and their loved ones. Every screening, every checkup, and every healthy choice is a step toward securing those precious moments in life we all cherish.
How the Black Heart Association is Making a Difference
The Black Heart Association is dedicated to bridging the gap in heart health disparities, not just through awareness, but through action. Here’s how we’re making an impact:
Mobile Heart Health Services: With over 10,000 screenings completed to date, our buses in Dallas and Houston continue to bring life-saving care directly to communities. Offering free screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and more, these mobile units are lifelines for accessible care at family reunions, corporate wellness days, and beyond.
The Guard Your Heart Tour: As part of our nationwide initiative, this tour delivers critical heart screenings and education to underserved communities across the country, empowering individuals with knowledge and resources to protect their heart health.
Future Expansion: Our vision includes extending these services to additional cities across the country, ensuring that no one is left behind when it comes to their health.
Recognize the Signs of Heart Trouble
One of the most crucial steps in saving lives is recognizing the warning signs of cardiovascular distress. Know the symptoms of a stroke with the acronym FAST:
F: Face drooping
A: Arm weakness
S: Speech difficulty
T: Time to call 911
Heart health is a community effort. By staying vigilant and informed, we can prevent tragedies before they happen.
Be Inspired. Take Action. #BeHere
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
— John 10:10
Let Jamie Foxx’s story be a call to action. We encourage you to join us in the fight against heart disease by prioritizing your health and the health of your loved ones. Together, we can ensure that everyone has the opportunity to celebrate life’s milestones.
Learn more about our mission, book a screening event, or support the Black Heart Association by visiting www.BlackHeartAssociation.org.
Let’s take control of our health—one heartbeat at a time. 🩵