What began as a routine appearance celebrating love and marriage on "Let’s Talk About It with the Turners" quickly transformed into a powerful testimony of faith, resilience and the fragility of life.
R. Todd Smith and his wife of 34 years, Chinita Moore Smith, were featured guests on the Couples Café segment, The Smiths recounted a medical emergency that unfolded just days before, one that nearly claimed Todd’s life.
The longtime Houston couple was preparing to attend midday Bible study when Todd began experiencing chest pain. Despite having had a clean physical exam just months earlier, Chinita insisted they seek medical attention immediately.
Doctors later confirmed Todd had suffered a heart attack caused by an 80 percent blockage in his left anterior descending artery, commonly referred to as the “widowmaker” because of its high fatality rate. Emergency surgery and the placement of a stent saved his life.
Reflecting on the moment, Chinita credited both faith and decisiveness for the outcome. “But God allows him to stand, to sit right here today next to me,” she said during the interview.
Todd was released from the hospital less than a week later. He emphasized that standard physicals may not always detect underlying risks and encouraged proactive testing.
“I had a heart attack,” Todd said.
The Smiths’ story resonated deeply, it even made The Turners highlight how marriage vows are tested not just during moments of joy, but in crisis.
Beyond the medical scare, they also highlighted the couple’s deep-rooted faith and service. Todd is an active member of Word of Restoration International Church, where he serves in the Baptism Ministry, Men’s Ministry and as Media Director. Chinita, an accomplished executive with nearly three decades of leadership experience, is also active in ministry and community service.
The Smiths stressed the importance of putting God first, maintaining open communication and making intentional decisions that support long-term partnership.
As the segment concluded, the Turners described the interview as unscripted, timely and necessary, particularly as it opened broader conversations around men’s health and faith within marriage.
To listen to the full interview, click the link above.