A Life Restarted: Surviving Cardiac Arrest and Finding Purpose
About the book
At just twenty-seven, Lynn Blake’s heart stopped without warning. Miraculously surviving cardiac arrest should have been enough. But Lynn soon faced a more daunting challenge: would she allow the trauma to define her—or use it to fuel a life-changing mission? In Heart of the Matter, Lynn takes readers on an extraordinary trek from near-death and past mistakes to creating a nonprofit that saves lives.
With raw honesty, she shares her path with the struggles of this world, grief, healing, and personal growth. From infertility and living with an implanted pacemaker defibrillator to overcoming anxiety and rediscovering her faith, Lynn’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human heart and soul.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Colorado mountains, Heart of the Matter invites readers to embrace life’s peaks and valleys, even in the lowest places. It’s a story about survival, purpose, and the power of love, proving that even the most tragic circumstances are filled with hope and transformation.
Cardiac Arrest Survivor and Daughter of the 38th President of the United States, Gerald R. Ford, and First Lady Betty Ford
Working with Lynn to raise awareness about cardiac arrest has given me a personal way to give back, much like my mother did for breast cancer and addiction. As ‘Heart of the Matter’ shows, there’s still so much work to be done—and this book empowers every reader to be part of the solution to save lives. As a fellow survivor, I’m grateful to Lynn for sharing her experiences in ‘Heart of the Matter’—it reminded me we’re never truly alone after surviving.
Firefighter and Star of ABC’s hit reality series The Bachelorette
Though I don’t remember most of the calls I’ve gone on as a firefighter, I will never forget Valentine's Day 2007. The quick actions of her colleagues and the Emergency Medicine applied on scene brought Lynn back to life, but what has been most remarkable about that day is the life Lynn gave back in response to it. The story of her journey back from cardiac arrest is remarkable, inspiring and something well worth reading…
Acclaimed Freelance Journalist and Author of The Way Out
Lynn Blake's heart is like a Notre Dame football helmet at the end of the season: chipped and wounded, yet still gold. If you are wondering what resilience looks like, read this book.
Cardiac Arrest Survivor
An incredibly inspiring memoir that highlights extraordinary ways Lynn’s paid it forward. The ideas, commitment, and impact are amazing. I hope to follow in even a few of the ways Lynn has.
Founder & CEO, GlassView
Lynn’s story is a rare gift—equal parts heart-stopping and heart-opening. Heart of the Matter doesn’t just chronicle survival; it illuminates purpose, resilience, and the quiet ways we find our way back to ourselves. I’m grateful she had the courage to write it—and even more grateful we get to read it.
Paramedic
Lynn Blake’s work moved me to my core. Her story of surviving sudden cardiac arrest is so much more than a story of survival—it’s a story of awakening. With raw honesty, grace, and depth, she invites us into the most vulnerable parts of her journey and shows us what it means to alchemize pain into purpose. It’s a powerful reminder of what it means to really live.
Cardiac Arrest Survivor
What a fantastic read! Powerful and inspiring, thisbook is rich with details—capturing the challenges and triumphs of recovery,medical procedures, emotional turmoil, and personal growth. Lynn’s honesty andopenness make this journey incredibly engaging. Thank you for sharing such aninspirational and heartfelt story.
Pastor of The Vail Church
Deeply engaging andprofoundly personal, Lynn’s work opens a path for others to explore the eternalin their own lives. I wholeheartedly applaud her mission to bring encouragementand hope to others. I am truly excited to witness the transformative impactthis book will have on so many lives!
Reader
Part educational, part inspirational, and partintimate. An enthralling memoir that invites readers into an intimate journeyof resilience and hope. With vivid storytelling and a relatable narrative, thisbook offers a powerful, inspiring message for anyone facing adversity. Amust-read for those who find strength in stories of triumph over life’schallenges. Every reader will walk away with something.
Reader
A beautifully crafted story of intense, vivid moments with dark clouds transformed into radiant silver linings.
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Heart Hope is a registered nonprofit, dedicates a portion of the proceeds from Heart of the Matter to supporting charitable projects that save lives and souls.
Dedicated to saving lives, souls, and bringing hope to the human heart.
PO Box 9152, Avon, CO 81620
