ALBUQUERQUE, Aug. 19, 2024 – The American Heart Association, the world’s leading voluntary health organization focused on heart and brain health for all, is inviting walkers and runners from across the state to participate in the New Mexico Heart Walk and Run. The Association’s Heart Walk is the premiere walking and fund-raising event and takes place in over 1,000 cities every year.

This year’s New Mexico Heart Walk and Run, slated for Saturday, Sept. 14 at the Avenyu Plaza at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, focuses on preventing heart disease and stroke by raising money to support heart research and heart healthy lifestyle programming. Funds also go toward CPR and AED education and awareness through the Association’s Nation of Lifesavers initiative.

There is no cost to participate in the family-friendly event, but pre-registration is encouraged. Festivities begin at 7:30 a.m. and the walk and 5K run starts at 8:40 a.m. Organizers hope to raise about $200,000.

The walk also celebrates and honors individuals who have survived a heart attack, heart surgery or a stroke. Survivors are given a red cap to wear on the day of the event to visualize the incidence of heart disease in our country.

One local survivor, Santa Fe-born Elizabeth “Liz” Nauman, was born with dextro-transposition of the great arteries, a serious heart defect. She underwent immediate and complex surgeries, including the now-obsolete Senning procedure. Despite numerous surgeries and valve replacements, Nauman remains resilient and positive.

Her strength is drawn from three sources: her father, Theran Lewis; her husband, Jason; and the medical professionals who have supported her. Her father, a Navy veteran, has been her unwavering support since birth. Nauman, chief safety officer for the Rio Metro Regional Transit District, is also a proud mother of three daughters – Kennady, Annarin and Ever.

Her story is one of survival and determination. She continues to face her condition with humor and positivity, emphasizing the importance of living life to the fullest and cherishing every moment.

“I want my girls to know that you get to choose how you live this life that you were given any way you want,” Nauman said. “We all face challenges, but you can either let them break you or use them to grow and move forward.”

Her journey inspires others to overcome their challenges and live without regrets. “I owe everything to every person who has played a part in keeping this motor running,” she said. “If I can help inspire or educate any doctor with my condition so they can help others, that’s a win in my book.”

Go to NewMexicoHeartWalk.org to sign up for the walk or to make a donation.

The New Mexico Heart Walk and Run is presented by Delta Dental. Support also comes from Centennial Sponsor Bradberry Stam, Healthcare Hero Sponsor Optum Health, F.A.S.T Stroke Warning Signs Sponsor Lovelace Health System and Start/Finish Line Sponsor Presbyterian Health Plan/The Solutions Group. Local support also comes from Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Albuquerque. The 5K run is managed by RunFit. Media support is by KRQE/New Mexico CW and Cumulus/Magic 99.5.

Additional Resources:

  • Learn more about the Nation of Lifesavers here
  • To learn hands-only CPR, go here.

For 100 years, the American Heart Association has saved and improved lives, pioneered scientific discovery and advocated for healthy public policies in communities across the country. These bold moves are fueled by our mission to be a relentless force for longer, healthier lives. They have helped transform our nation’s health and significantly reduce heart disease and stroke death rates. But these gains have not been shared equitably. Black, Hispanic, Native American, Native Hawaiian, Asian American, Pacific Islander and LGBTQ+ people have suffered and died disproportionately. So have people in historically underrepresented communities all over the country. With Bold Hearts™ and powered by science, we pledge to work relentlessly to eliminate heart disease and stroke, optimize brain health and ensure equitable health in every community.

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

 

For Media Inquiries

Cyd King: cyd.king@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org