While attending summer class at a local New Jersey college, Ray learned of a science professor's recent heart attack. The professor informed the class the importance of eating healthy and to "avoid soda at all costs". After class, Ray confronted the professor and informed him about Hawthorn Berry, a sweet and natural herb with red berries that contain high antioxidants. To his surprise, the professor wasn't aware of the berry's impact on heart health.

In 2009, Ray told the story to his childhood friends John and Warren and they were immediately motivated to make a difference. The idea hit home as John's father has high cholesterol and Warren's father just recently suffered a heart attack. The three friends wondered why more wasn't being done in tackling heart disease, the world's number 1 killer.

After careful research and meeting with several doctors, herbalists, and natural food stores, a list of natural heart healthy ingredients began to emerge. They decided to take action and develop an all natural drink solely formulated for heart health. The drink would taste great and also help raise awareness for heart health. Heart Juice was born.