"...Literally took my breath away... Beautifully written and descriptive, I was right there on Chad's journey. An American Memoir of life that reminds you what's important, the human heart being one of them. A 5-star read I highly recommend." -Matt D., New York, New York
"From NY to Malibu, heart screenings to homeless soccer tourneys in Austria, the purpose emerges loud and clear - to save the Lives of those who still have a chance at a future. It is crucial to raise awareness for mandatory heart screenings for young athletes! Many testimonials of families affected by sudden cardiac deaths (SCD) won't leave you indifferent. This book is truly a work of Love, filled with tears and laughter, pain and loss, and most of all hope!" -Olena, Los Angeles, California
Chad Alan Butrum loved sports. One day he went out to play football in LA and it would be his last game; he died of Sudden Cardiac Death in Young Athletes. He was just 26 years old. His artist mother Arista takes us on a journey of Love, Life and Laughter, as the young family forges new dreams in Detroit, Chicago, St. Louis, Malibu, and New York City. After Chad's sudden loss to SCD, she discovers through his colleagues at Carolco Pictures the young man Chad was becoming - the promise of a talented creative writer who touched the lives of many people in his short Life. He loved all people- any age, heritage, or orientation. In Part II, the author transcends loss into a quest to save lives by founding the non-profit organization, The Chad Foundation for Athletes and Artists, to safeguard young hearts so they can live long, healthy Lives and reach their most cherished dreams. It also inspires youth to live as Chad did- anti-substance abuse and alcohol-free, Healthy Body/Mind/ Spirit. The Chad Foundation Cardiovascular Screening Program has provided 8,000 Echocardiograms/ECGS in 5 states and, globally, in Austria and Sweden. Many parents who have also lost children to SCD, share their heartfelt stories within underscoring the critical importance of raising awareness of Sudden Cardiac Death in the Young, implementing preventive heart screenings, knowledge of CPR, and placement of AEDs. It is a journey of the Heart and the discovery that The Heart is the Home of our two greatest gifts-Love and Life-and must be safeguarded as our most valued possession.