Father's Plea After Losing Both Sons to Heart Condition

A devastating loss has struck the Cardiello family, with 30-year-old former football player Josh Cardiello dying from sudden cardiac arrest on Monday. His passing occurred a mere four years after his younger brother, Jacob, also died from the same condition in 2021. Josh, a three-time champion at Buford High School, went on to play collegiate football before a brief stint with the NFL's Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He recently worked for Amgen, a biotechnology company.

Following his brother's death, Josh channeled his grief into honoring Jacob's memory, dedicating his professional life to patient advocacy within the pharmaceutical industry. He was particularly passionate about supporting patients with cardiovascular disease, understanding their burdens firsthand. His commitment, integrity, and compassion were hallmarks of his personal and professional life, leaving a significant impact on colleagues and patients alike.

In the wake of this profound loss, Josh's father, Jay, is determined to raise awareness and advocate for national mandated genetic testing at birth and regular childhood heart screenings. He aims to channel his grief into honoring both his sons, seeking innovations for cardiovascular treatments to prevent future tragedies. Josh is survived by his wife, Allison, and young daughter, Amelia. A funeral service is scheduled for January 10.