Lake Zurich Boy Recognized as a Top Fundraiser for American Heart Association

At age 4, Lake Zurich resident Nolan Pemstein, complained of leg pain, had breathing issues and couldn't sleep at times. After a visit to his doctor, his blood pressure was up but he seemed fine.

Following up this visit, it was determined that Nolan was born with a condition known as coarctation of the aorta. His first heart operation was complicated. A few years later, he went through another operation where a balloon was inserted. After three operations, he is a healthy boy who excels in both baseball and basketball.

For the past few years, Issac Fox Elementary School has held a "Jump Rope for Heart" fundraiser at the school. The children jump rope and raise money for the American Heart Association. Nolan did that and his friends and family chipped in with record numbers.

He raised $4,175 for the fund. That made him the top fundraiser in the Chicago area. He was listed No. 2 in the state of Illinois and 13th in the United States.

Nolan was honored at the American Heart Association headquarters in Chicago on Aug. 7. His cardiologist, Dr. David Thoele, was in attendance and spoke at the event.

Submitted by the Pemstein family.