KALAMAZOO, Oct. 15, 2024 — The Kalamazoo Heart Walk is returning to Celery Flats Historical Area on Saturday, Oct. 26 at 9 a.m. The Heart Walk is an annual fundraising event designed to promote physical fitness, one of the most proactive ways we can combat cardiovascular disease and stroke symptoms.
For 100 years the American Heart Association has saved and improved lives, pioneered scientific discovery and advocated for healthy communities. With bold moves and support from donors, the Heart Walk saves lives by bringing friends, families, coworkers and neighbors together.
Cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of death in West Michigan and several community sponsors are working together with the American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, to change that. Nancy Turtle, community bank president of Mercantile Bank, will serve as chair for the 2024 Kalamazoo Heart Walk.
“Through fundraising, community education and corporate engagement, the Heart Walk aims to enhance CPR training accessibility, bolster bystander preparedness, increase funding for vital research, and ultimately, save lives,” Turtle said.
As chair of the Heart Walk, Turtle is leading a team of executives to recruit companies and organizations to rally for heart health.
“We know that cardiac arrests can happen at work, in homes, on athletic fields and in neighborhoods everywhere, and the readiness of our community can be the difference between life and death,” Turtle added.
Scott Williams, a 43-year-old father and husband, collapsed last year while running in his neighborhood. Thankfully a neighbor called 9-1-1. Williams, who has a blood disorder that makes him more prone to heart attacks and clots in his arteries, was in cardiac arrest for an incredible 22 minutes, during which he also suffered a heart attack. Williams survived thanks to doctors Steve Ray and Paul Berkowitz who happened to be nearby and knew what to do. The two performed CPR until help arrived.
“I’m forever grateful to live in a community with people who are so selfless to act on behalf of others. I was incredibly lucky to have several neighbors stop to assist me when I had cardiac arrest while out jogging. They saved my life in every sense of the word. In particular, the CPR training that two friends put into action is what made the difference so I could go on living the active and healthy life I enjoy today,” said Williams.
The money raised at the Heart Walk funds research that saves lives like Scott’s and funds science that gives healthcare providers the tools they need when it counts – in the moments when someone’s life is in their hands. Since the inception of the Heart Walk, mortality rates from cardiovascular disease and stroke have decreased by nearly 50%.
“With the support of our community, we can prepare more people to act, so that in the event of a cardiac emergency, like Scott’s, anyone, anywhere is empowered and ready to perform CPR,” said Caleb Porter, development director, Southwest Michigan, American Heart Association. “Every walker who joins, every dollar donated, means more research, more people trained in lifesaving CPR, and more lifesaving moments for everyone, everywhere.”
The Heart Walk route will begin at Celery Flats and follow a paved trail to Portage Creek Bicentennial Park where walkers will have access to water stations. The Heart Walk is family friendly, open to the public and will feature a kid zone, pet zone, “stomp out stress” zone and yoga. The American Heart Association will provide on-site CPR training, and vendors will offer coffee and smoothies for purchase. Kalamazoo Wings mascot “Slappy” will be part of the event to entertain and encourage walkers along the way.
Participants can join Williams and help us keep all hearts beating by registering teams today at www.kalamazooheartwalk.org.
View Scott’s survivor message here!
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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:
Matt Johnson; matt.johnson@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org