12 Rounds of Advocacy: Fighting for Heart Health

Hi, I’m Toi Irvin, and I’m a heart health advocate, life coach, author, and most importantly—a mom who’s lived through the unimaginable.

In 2023, my son—professional boxer Evan Holyfield—underwent emergency open-heart surgery. We had no roadmap. No safety net. Just faith, fierce love, and the will to fight. As his caregiver, I carried the weight of his healing while also facing emotional burnout, financial pressure, and the deep realization that most families aren’t prepared for a medical crisis.

That experience changed me. It ignited my passion to speak up—not just for my son, but for every patient and caregiver trying to find their footing in the chaos.

Today, I use my voice to raise awareness, push for policy change, and support other families through education, advocacy, and storytelling. Whether I’m at the Capitol, leading workshops, or coaching women through my book 12 Rounds to Getting Back Up, I’m here to remind people: you’re not alone, and healing is possible.

This is personal. And this is my round.