I think about my father every day. He was the strongest man I knew — hardworking, dedicated, always putting family first. But heart disease hit him like a blitz he didn’t see coming. He passed away at just 61 years old.
Losing him was my wake-up call. It reminded me that no matter how strong or successful we are, heart disease can impact anyone. We have to face it head-on — with knowledge, prevention, and care. For too long, I didn’t. But now, I’m committed to doing better — not just for me, but for my family, and for the community I love.
As a former professional athlete, my body was my business. I trained hard and played harder. But when I left the game, I had to learn a new playbook — one that focused on health, longevity, and self-care. Today, I want to share some lessons I’ve learned and how we, as a community, can take charge of our heart health — before it’s too late.
Get Your Heart Checked—Early and Often
Power starts with prevention — especially when it comes to your heart. Black adults are more likely than any other group to develop high blood pressure and suffer from heart disease or stroke. I make sure to see my doctor regularly and track my blood pressure, cholesterol, and overall heart health. Don’t wait until something feels wrong, know your numbers now. Prevention saves lives.
Prioritize Rest Like it’s Game Day
When I played, recovery was just as important as training. That still applies. I focus on quality sleep, stretching, and managing stress. We live in a culture that celebrates grinding and hustling 24/7 — but if you’re running on empty, you can’t win. Resting isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity.
Eat Like Your Future Depends on it
Back in the day, I ate to perform. These days, I eat to live. That means more lean proteins, greens, and heart-healthy foods—and less salty and processed stuff. High blood pressure hits Black folks — especially Black women — harder and earlier than others. Too much sodium pulls water into your bloodstream, raising blood pressure — and with it, your risk of heart attack and stroke. Cutting back, even just a little, can change your life.
Move Every Day—Even if it’s Not a Workout
I don’t hit the field anymore, but I stay moving. Whether it’s golfing, walking with my wife, or keeping up with my kids, staying active is key. It doesn’t have to be a gym grind. Find something you love and make it part of your routine. Experts recommend at least 150 minutes of weekly activity, but even 5 minutes a day can help boost your overall health.
Manage Stress Before it Manages You
Stress didn’t stop when I left the game, it just changed. Many Black adults deal with daily stress — from money, work, caregiving, and systemic barriers. And stress takes a toll on the heart. I lean on prayer, deep breathing, and family time to stay grounded. Find what works for you — and don’t ignore how you’re feeling.
Build a “Health Huddle”
In football, nobody wins alone. Health is no different. I check in with my family and friends about doctor visits, exercise, and mental wellness. Find your team — people who’ll keep you honest and uplift you. Let’s support each other.
Lead by Example
Taking care of myself isn’t just for me — it’s for my family. I want to be here to see my kids and grandkids grow up. Real strength is about being present. When we take care of ourselves, we set a powerful example for those who look up to us.
A Legacy of Heart Health
Heart disease is one of the most preventable killers in America, yet it continues to hit Black communities hardest. That doesn’t have to be our story. That’s why I teamed up with the CDC Foundation’s Live to the Beat campaign. Through our “Legacy of Heart Health” initiative, we’re sharing real stories—because in our community, storytelling is powerful. It’s how we connect, how we heal, and how we grow.
Visit LiveToTheBeat.org to hear from others, share your own journey, and get free tools to help you start building your legacy of heart health. Every step you take — from getting your blood pressure checked to taking a walk — can lead to a better future.
Let’s rewrite the playbook. Let’s make health our legacy.
Jerome Bettis, pro football legend, serves as a spokesperson for the CDC Foundation’s “Live to the Beat” campaign, using his personal story to raise awareness about heart health in the Black community. After losing his father to a heart attack at 61, Bettis is dedicated to encouraging others to take proactive steps in managing high blood pressure and reducing their risk of cardiovascular disease. Through Live to the Beat’s “Legacy of Heart Health” initiative, he shares his journey to inspire Black adults to prioritize their well-being and create a lasting impact for future generations.