05/05/2026
Congrats to Gold Award Girl Scout Sahithi!
During a family trip to India, her father suffered a sudden heart attack and was rushed to the ICU. The experience left Sahithi not only afraid but frustrated by a healthcare system that felt impersonal and lacked transparency, leaving families without needed support.
As her father recovered, she realized many others shared similar experiences. Determined to help, she created her Gold Award project, โOhio Cardiac Collective,โ focused on heart health education and community support.
In partnership with her non-profit, Healthy Hearts of Ohio, Sahithi led community workshops, CPR/AED training sessions, and heart health presentations in collaboration with local and global organizations.
Through these combined efforts, the project inspired over 100 middle and high schools to pursue CPR certification and reached hundreds more through digital platforms and community outreach events.
The Ohio Cardiac Collective aims to encourage communities to prioritize preventative heart health and stress management. By fostering awareness and providing practical tools, the project seeks to reduce cardiac risks among young adults and promote long-term health education.
โI aspire to a physician who listens and cares. Through my experience I learned that healing starts only when a clinician can create connection to the patient with trust and empathy. My project reflects my passion to serve community by advocating with care.โ
Way to go, Sahithi!
Learn more about the Gold Award here: go.gsoh.org/GoldAward