By The Survivors Club Staff
February 1, 2010

When she was seven months pregnant, Eliz Greene suffered a massive heart attack that nearly killed her and her twin daughters. Following an emergency C-section and an open-heart surgery, Greene's road to recovery was long, but in the process she discovered a new passion for a healthy lifestyle.

In fact, in the wake of the dramatic events the new mother undertook a gym routine that helped her lose the more than 80 pounds she had gained during pregnancy and has become an amateur triathlete.

Today, her motto is "to engage life rather than just endure it!," and Greene travels the country giving speeches and participating in wellness programs designed to encourage people to introduce physical activity into their daily schedules, eat better and manage stress.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women, and it killed 631,636 Americans in 2006.

Although the causes of the condition are complex and involve both genetic and environmental factors, medical experts say a diet low in cholesterol and saturated fats but high in fish oils and fresh produce can significantly reduce the risk. Smoking and sedentary lifestyle are other major contributing factors and should be avoided.

Heart disease survivors can find informational resources on the website of the American Heart Association, which also accepts donations.