It’s been nearly two decades since the world lost John Ritter, a beloved actor and comedian, at the age of 54. His untimely death in 2003 was due to an acute aortic dissection, a condition that could have been detected earlier. His widow, Amy Yasbeck, has been tirelessly advocating for awareness ever since. "John didn’t have to die," Amy, now 61, told Closer at the Evening From the Heart Gala on May 9. "Aortic dissection is serious, but it doesn’t have to be fatal. It often begins with an aneurysm, which might show up on a CT scan or other imaging tests, even if there are no symptoms."
A Legacy of Advocacy
Amy Yasbeck has become a powerful voice for those affected by aortic dissection, a life-threatening condition where the inner layer of the thoracic aorta tears. "The condition is often mistaken for a heart attack, just as it was in John’s case," Amy explained. "But with proper diagnosis and treatment, many lives can be saved." Her mission is personal, driven by the loss of her husband, but it’s also universal. Amy wants to ensure that no family has to experience the heartbreak she endured.
Remembering John: A Celebration of Life
Friends, family, and co-stars from John’s iconic shows, like Three’s Company and 8 Simple Rules, gathered at the gala to honor his legacy. Among them were Joyce DeWitt, Priscilla Barnes, and Kaley Cuoco, who shared fond memories and expressed their commitment to spreading awareness. "John was more than just a colleague; he was family," said Joyce, 75. "He was one of the most talented individuals I’ve ever met, and it’s an honor to be part of this cause in his name."
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Tragically, John’s death was the result of a misdiagnosis. During the filming of an episode of 8 Simple Rules, he experienced sudden chest pain and nausea. Rushed to the hospital, he was initially treated for a heart attack, a mistake that ultimately cost him his life. "Diagnostic imaging could have made all the difference," Amy emphasized. "That’s why education and awareness are so crucial."
The John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health
In the wake of John’s passing, Amy founded The John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health. This organization is dedicated to funding research, educating the public, and advocating for improved diagnosis and treatment of thoracic aortic aneurysms and dissections. The foundation also hosts the Evening From the Heart Gala, an event that brings together supporters and admirers of John’s work to continue his legacy.
John’s son Tyler, 39, spoke about the importance of the foundation’s mission. "This is about turning loss into something meaningful," he said. "It took me years to come to terms with my grief, but with Amy leading the way and having children of my own who might carry the gene, I feel ready to step into a new role and responsibility." Tyler’s involvement underscores the family’s dedication to honoring John’s memory in a way that helps others.
As Amy reflected on John’s life and legacy, she joked that he might have been surprised by all the attention. "He’d probably say, 'What are you doing? I’m not dead!'" she laughed. But deep down, she believes John would understand. "He once told me I reminded him of his mother, Dorothy Ritter, who was a fierce advocate for United Cerebral Palsy. If you see a problem and you have the power to make a difference, you have to act."
The John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health continues to grow, raising awareness and funds for research, education, and advocacy. To learn more or get involved, visit www.johnritterfoundation.org.
