How one couple’s life-changing cardiac care inspired them to champion heart health research in their own community
Drew Naukam and his wife, Sharon, were stunned when their close friend and neighbor in Frisco suffered a massive heart attack during a birthday party. A cardiac nurse who happened to be at the party quickly used an automated external defibrillator (AED), resuscitating him and buying precious time to reach Baylor Scott & White Health The Heart Hospital, where clinicians repaired his heart.
A wake-up call that sparked heart health awareness
“That experience really opened our eyes to heart health awareness,” Drew recalled. He and Sharon soon became involved with the American Heart Association, alongside their friends.
An avid athlete and executive of a tech consulting firm, Drew has always led an active lifestyle as a way to manage stress. A former college soccer player, he continued to push himself physically well into his 50s—running marathons, completing triathlons and playing in an adult soccer league.
An active lifestyle meets an unexpected diagnosis
So, it came as a surprise when, during a routine check-up, Drew’s primary care physician asked whether anyone had ever told him he had a heart murmur. Further testing with a cardiologist on the medical staff at Baylor Scott & White revealed a congenital issue with Drew’s bicuspid aortic valve.
A small growth was impeding its function, putting Drew at risk for potentially fatal complications, including stroke. It was recommended that Drew consult with a cardiothoracic surgeon.
He met with Katherine Harrington, M.D., a cardiothoracic surgeon on the medical staff at Baylor Scott & White The Heart Hospital – Plano, who confirmed Drew would need valve replacement surgery. “She’s a rock star,” Drew said. “She was direct and confident. I joked and asked if she could give me a lightning bolt scar—and she said, ‘Absolutely not!’”
Following the successful surgery in 2021, Drew felt supported every step of the way. “Post-surgery, my care team really understood what I needed to recover, mentally and emotionally, as well as physically,” he said. “We connected on where I wanted to go.” Just three weeks after surgery, Drew ran a mile. Three months later, he was back on the soccer field with his league.
From patient to advocate: giving back to heart health research
Profoundly grateful for receiving expert care at exactly the right time, the Naukams continued their support of heart health through the American Heart Association and decided to make a gift to support initiatives at Baylor Scott & White The Heart Hospital – Plano.
Their decision was shaped by the dedication they witnessed at Baylor Scott & White. Through connections with leaders at Baylor Scott & White The Heart Hospital – Plano, the Naukams gained insight into the impactful research taking place right here in North Texas.
Why supporting local heart care matters
Led by the Baylor Scott & White Research Institute, an extensive portfolio of clinical trials and studies focuses on advancing the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular conditions, including atrial fibrillation, heart failure, coronary artery disease, valve disorders and heart rhythm issues. This research is conducted across Baylor Scott & White hospitals—including Baylor Scott & White The Heart Hospital – Plano—integrating innovation directly into clinical practice to expand care options for patients.
“Shifting our focus to something local was important to us—it was a way to make a real impact in the community where we live,” Drew said.
For Sharon, giving back felt essential. “We were just so grateful,” she said. “We couldn’t imagine simply saying, ‘Thanks—we’ll see you again in 10 or 15 years when it’s time to replace the valve.’ Going through this ourselves gave us a much deeper appreciation for what these skilled professionals do behind the scenes.”
Learn more about the role of philanthropy in heart care at Baylor Scott & White
Many people, Sharon said, leave a hospital and never want to think about it again. The Naukams felt the opposite: “There was something kind of magical about the entire team,” she said, remembering meaningful moments with everyone from the surgeons to the kind woman at check-in. “It didn’t feel right to just walk out the door and be done.”
“You know that saying, ‘To whom much is given, much is expected’?” Drew asked. “Gifts come in many forms—health, faith, financial resources and more. When you receive a gift like the care we did at Baylor Scott & White, you have an opportunity to give something back.” Drew encourages others to consider how they can support the mission, whether through philanthropy or volunteering their time.
The Naukams describe their journey to heart health as “fascinating,” not only because of its impact on Drew’s life, but also because of the doors it opened for them to give back in a meaningful way. Drew and Sharon have three children, two of whom are pursuing careers in medicine, further strengthening the family’s commitment to advocating for preventive care and early intervention.
“Part of what we try to amplify is the importance of regular care,” Drew said. “Get the testing done. Make sure there isn’t something going on that you don’t know about. I share my story because anyone who feels moved to say ‘thank you’ should know there are countless ways to help further the mission of caring for others.”
Shining a light on high-quality cardiac care in Plano
“What I love about what Baylor Scott & White is doing,” Drew said, “is that it’s almost a well-kept secret—and it shouldn’t be. The research, training and education happening in Plano are incredible. This is a top-tier heart hospital on a global level, and it’s right here in our community. If we can shine a light on that and help more people understand what’s happening, we can truly make a difference in heart health across North Texas and beyond.”
Join the Naukams in honoring a Baylor Scott & White caregiver who made a difference in your life by supporting the programs and research that empower them to deliver exceptional care.
