Leadership
Board of Directors
Karen Schrah (President and Founder)
Harbor Group Management
“My life was forever changed on April 2, 2009, when my son Zachary was a victim of sudden cardiac death. I knew then I wanted to raise awareness of sudden cardiac arrest in youth and why I started this journey. In June 2009, the Living for Zachary (L4Z) organization was founded. After receiving the first shipment of L4Z wristbands, one wristband in the bunch stood out. As I looked at it closer, one side said BELIEVE and the other said Romans 8:28, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” This moment confirmed the plan God had for me and L4Z. I have met several families impacted by the work L4Z is doing in the community. It is without a doubt the Lord is turning tragedy into triumph, death into life, and sadness into purpose.”
Kellea Darwin (Secretary)
ZOLL Medical Corporation
“Over the last decade while working in cardiac rehabilitation and cardiac management solutions, I have witnessed first-hand the terrifying reality of SCA as well as the increasing amount of preemptive tools and education available. At the same time, I continue to see an undeniable need for SCA awareness and feel called to serve. I am eager and honored for the opportunity to play a small part in Zac’s legacy and Karen’s critical mission.”
Hunter Henley
Protiviti
“Youth heart disease is difficult! I was devastated when I learned of my son’s heart disease. However, I am also grateful to see his indomitable spirit as he grows and develops into a young man. Youth who live with heart disease are heroes! Living for Zachary provides the education and equipment necessary to save lives. Serving on the Board of Directors gives me the joy of knowing I am part of something big! Many young heart-heroes benefit from our work!“
Darian Jones
J.P. Morgan Private Bank
“Living for Zachary’s mission perfectly comingles two of my passions, our youth and sports. In the past 9 years, I have witnessed the impact Living for Zachary has made and continues to make in the community. Karen’s sacrificial heart is inspirational and reminds me of Genesis 50:20 NIV, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
August Larson
AMN Healthcare
“I have been inspired by Karen’s journey and seeing what Living for Zachary has done in our community bringing awareness to sudden cardiac arrest with our youth and saving lives. L4Z’s mission really hits home for me with my love for sports and our youth. I am thrilled at the opportunity to serve on the Board of Directors and look forward to contributing toward positive change for youth heart health in North Texas.”
Joe Marquez
Koerber
“There simply is no greater call to action than being told over the phone on a workday morning, that your 13-year-old daughter is being treated by paramedics at school and later learning that Sudden Cardiac Arrest was the reason. Sudden Cardiac Arrest steals too many young lives and only by the Grace of God was our daughter in a situation where a recently CPR trained staff was present and an AED readily available to ensure a lifesaving outcome. My goal is to assist Living for Zachary in its mission to provide as many people as possible to be CPR trained Life Savers, to place AEDs in as many opportune areas to protect our youth, and, most importantly, to carry the message that each and every one of us can be that first responder to save a life.”
Steven Hunter
Baylor Scott & White The Heart Hospital
“While serving on the Board of Directors for Living for Zachary, I am reminded that every heartbeat counts. I am committed to supporting the organization’s mission to prevent sudden cardiac arrest in young people, honoring the memory of Zachary Schrah, and ensuring that no other family has to endure the pain of losing a loved one to this silent killer. Since meeting Karen, I have been truly inspired by the work this organization has provided and the visionary goals that are still to come. Together, we are saving lives and making a lasting impact on our community’s health and well-being, and I am honored to be part of this organization.”
James Tipton
North Dallas Bank & Trust Co
“Karen’s story is an inspiration of taking adversity and turning it into something beautiful. As a father of four involved in sports, it has encouraged me to serve on the Board of Directors and bring awareness to Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA). To be a part of such a great organization that brings education, awareness, and equipment to combat SCA is truly an honor. I am grateful to serve with others to make a tangible difference in promoting public health and safety.”
Rik Thrailkill,
Cross Timbers Consulting Group
Never in a million years did I think I would hear these words about my seemingly healthy 15-year-old high school athlete; “your son needs open heart surgery.” As scary as that moment was it led to an amazing triumph. In 2016 my son’s life was almost assuredly saved by a Living for Zachary free heart screening and the amazing surgical team at Baylor Heart Hospital. He went on to play 2 varsity sports and 4 years of College Baseball. Camden is now a proud L4Z Ambassador and a living symbol of Zach’s legacy. I’m honored to serve on the Board of Directors of this great organization.
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