Aorta Advocates
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The John Ritter Foundation is here for you.

Whether you’re an aortic patient, a caregiver, or have lost a loved one to aortic dissection, The John Ritter Foundation is here to help you navigate your journey. Established after the death of John Ritter  — beloved actor, husband, father, and friend — due to a thoracic aortic dissection, we are determined to reduce death and disability caused by thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection.

What we offer

  • Peer Support - connect with someone who has walked a similar journey
  • Preparing for Appointments - work with a registered nurse to prepare for an upcoming aortic appointment
  • Building Community - create connections to foster a sense of belonging and empowerment
  • Education - join webinars and watch videos with top aortic experts
  • Research - participate in ongoing research to improve outcomes for patients and save lives
  • Caregiver Support - emotional and educational assistance to those caring for loved ones with aortic conditions
  • Awareness - educate healthcare professionals and promote early diagnosis
  • Events - bring people together to raise awareness and generate essential support for research and services

The John Ritter Foundation does not provide medical or mental health care. 

The services offered are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified physician or health provider.

Please complete this form and be on the lookout for an email from us with more information. If you haven’t heard from us within a week, email us directly at info@johnritterfoundation.org. Sometimes replies get filtered into junk mail.

Aorta Advocates

Aorta Advocates are trained volunteers with personal experience in thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection. The job of an Aorta Advocate is not to be your advocate, but rather to empower you to advocate for your own or your family’s medical care. They’re here to offer resources, information you can trust, and encourage you to navigate your own journey.

Whether you’re an aortic patient, a caregiver, or have lost a loved one to aortic dissection, The John Ritter Foundation can connect you with a peer who understands.

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Aorta Prep

Aorta Prep is designed to help you or your loved one prepare for an upcoming appointment with a physician who is helping manage you or your loved one’s aortic care. An appointment is not needed if you lost a loved one to aortic dissection.

Complete the eligibility form

Learn

Want to better understand aortic disease and how to advocate for the care you need? Our webinars and Q&A sessions with leading aortic experts are a great place to start. Aortic disease are often under-recognized, and finding healthcare providers with the right training and experience can make a real difference.

Gain the knowledge to take an active role in your care. The more you know, the more confidently you can navigate your aortic journey.

See more videos