Reviewed by: Cindy Hatcher
This local got 20 extra years with his dad—now he’s leading the charge at the Heart Walk
Reading time: 4 minutes
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When people talk about heart disease, it’s usually in numbers and stats. But for Daniel Listi, the topic is personal and measured in time: Twenty extra years with his dad—years not guaranteed after a sudden phone call and open heart surgery.
Today, Daniel leads one of Birmingham’s major hospitals and chairs the American Heart Association’s Birmingham Heart Walk, but long before those roles, he was just a son doing everything he could to give his dad more time.
Read on for Daniel’s story, plus details on the Birmingham Heart Walk happening March 14 at Railroad Park and how fundraising helps save lives in Alabama.
The heart pillow that started it all
Daniel’s connection to the American Heart Association began in an unexpected way: a heart-shaped pillow his dad received while recovering from open-heart surgery.
“They have you hug the pillow as you recover. My dad’s pillow still shows where I signed it and where all of his doctors signed it.”
Daniel Listi, President, Baptist Health Princeton Hospital
For Daniel, the pillow became a symbol of hope and how quality care can make a real difference.
Lessons from heartbreak + hope
Heart disease runs in Daniel’s family. His grandfather died of a heart attack before he was 10 years old, and his father faced decades of heart challenges.
“I was the family member that stayed after my dad’s surgery. I helped him get home and supported him as he recovered. Those two weeks taught me so much about patience, care and how much small actions matter.”
Daniel Listi, President, Baptist Health Princeton Hospital
When his dad passed away this year, Daniel focused on gratitude rather than loss.
“What’s important is the 20 years I got with him that came from amazing research, great cardiologists and ongoing improvements.”
Daniel Listi, President, Baptist Health Princeton Hospital
CPR, checkups + heart smarts
Heart disease is more common than many people realize. Daniel shared some important stats that highlight how common heart disease is and why small actions matter:
- 1 in 3 people will die from heart disease or a stroke-related event.
- 10% is the chance of surviving a cardiac arrest that occurs outside of a hospital.
- Chances of cardiac arrest survival are 2-3 times higher if CPR is performed immediately.
“Knowing these numbers make you realize how important it is to take simple steps, like routine checkups, lab work, diet, exercise and stress management. And knowing CPR? That can literally save a life.”
Daniel Listi, President, Baptist Health Princeton Hospital
Why heart health matters + how you can help
This year, Daniel will take part in the Birmingham Heart Walk, not just as a leader, but as someone walking for his dad, Sam.
“This year, we’ll be celebrating my dad. He lived to 83 with a pretty ugly, torn-up heart. The timing with the walk works out perfect with us celebrating his life.”
Daniel Listi, President, Baptist Health Princeton Hospital
Here’s what makes the Birmingham Heart Walk stand out:
- Free to join—come as you are, no registration fee required.
- Bring your crew—walk with a survivor, a friend or even your fur baby.
- Walk through Pepper Place—enjoy peak farmers’ market hours!
- Make a difference—every dollar raised stays in Alabama to fund heart research + health
Who will you be walking for during the Birmingham Heart Walk 2026? (American Heart Association)
This year, the Heart Walk’s fundraising goal is $1 million, and Daniel says teams are already set up to crush it.
“We want to see people show up, smile, laugh and love the day, while knowing that every dollar raised goes right back into Alabama to make a difference.”
Daniel Listi, President, Baptist Health Princeton Hospital
Put your best foot forward for heart health—sign up now for the Birmingham Heart Walk on March 14 at Railroad Park.
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