Cytokinetics, Incorporated has launched a new campaign titled “On Track with HCM,” aimed at raising awareness about hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and supporting those affected by the condition. The initiative features Olympic gold medalist Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone and her father, Willie McLaughlin, who has lived with the non-obstructive form of HCM for over two decades before undergoing a heart transplant.
The program, revealed on January 27, 2026, in South San Francisco, California, reflects Cytokinetics’ ongoing dedication to the HCM community. Developed in collaboration with patient advocacy groups, “On Track with HCM” includes an interactive website and a series of eight videos showcasing personal narratives from the McLaughlin family. The campaign aims to provide practical insights for managing everyday life with HCM, a condition that affects approximately 1 in every 350 people in the United States, many of whom remain undiagnosed.
The McLaughlin family’s journey with HCM has been a significant aspect of their lives. Willie’s experience with the disease has inspired Sydney, who commented, “On track or off, every journey has its hurdles. Watching my father manage his health with the same rigor he once coached me as a child has been inspirational.” Through this campaign, they hope to motivate others facing similar challenges.
HCM is the most common inherited heart disease and can lead to severe complications such as atrial fibrillation, heart failure, and sudden cardiac arrest. Diane Weiser, Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs at Cytokinetics, emphasized the company’s commitment to addressing both the clinical and personal aspects of living with HCM. She stated, “On Track with HCM is designed to support the whole person and empower patients and their families to live fuller, healthier lives.”
Human Stories and Medical Insights
The campaign not only highlights personal stories but also includes expert insights from Melissa Burroughs, M.D., FACC, Director of the Center of Excellence for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy at the Wellstar Center for Cardiovascular Care. Dr. Burroughs provides clinical context and offers strategies for managing the broader impacts of HCM on patients and their families.
The video episodes cover various topics, including fitness, nutrition, and the social and emotional aspects of living with HCM. By presenting both personal experiences and expert advice, “On Track with HCM” aims to create a comprehensive resource for those affected by the condition.
For more information about the campaign, including videos and resources, visit OnTrackWithHCM.com. The site features insights from both Willie and Sydney, alongside practical advice for managing the everyday challenges associated with HCM.
About Cytokinetics and HCM
Cytokinetics is a biopharmaceutical company focused on cardiovascular health, with over 25 years of experience in muscle biology research. Their product, MYQORZO® (aficamten), has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for treating adults with symptomatic obstructive HCM. The company is also exploring treatments for non-obstructive HCM and continues to develop other therapies for heart-related conditions.
HCM remains a pressing health issue, with estimates suggesting that there are between 400,000 and 800,000 undiagnosed cases in the United States. Cytokinetics’ initiative, in partnership with notable figures like Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, aims to bring crucial awareness to this condition and empower those living with it.
As the campaign progresses, Cytokinetics hopes to foster a supportive community for HCM patients and their families, underlining the importance of both medical and emotional support in managing this chronic condition.
