AUSTIN, May 26, 2026 — Stroke is still the No. 4 cause of death in Travis County, but through events like this month’s CycleNation, the Austin community is determined to change that statistic. Held in and around Assembly Hall on May 13, 125 riders from 15 companies came together to pedal with a purpose, raising over $110,000 to benefit the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association – the leading voluntary health organization focused on heart and brain health for all.

Each year, approximately 800,000 people in the U.S. have a stroke. While around 80% of those who have a stroke will survive, the majority of these will remain with some degree of physical impairment or disability. Research shows that up to 80% of strokes may be prevented. Getting the recommended amount of physical activity is linked to lower risk of diseases, stronger bones and muscles, improved mental health and cognitive function and lower risk of depression.

“When we started the journey for the 2026 CycleNation event, my mission was clear and deeply personal,” said Austin CycleNation chairperson Yvonne Cantu-Diaz. “I chose to ride for my dad, who has suffered through years of heart-related issues. He was my original ‘why’. As the year progressed, the journey unexpectedly took on an even heavier, deeper meaning. Two of my childhood best friends each had their fathers suffer from stroke. Tragically, after months of courageous fighting and complications, one of my friends lost her father. Suddenly, I was no longer just riding for my dad’s ongoing fight; I was riding in memory of a wonderful man we lost too soon.”

CycleNation is rooted in proven science that physical activity can support strong brain function, processing speed and mental sharpness. That can reduce the likelihood of a stroke, but it is equally important to recognize the signs of stroke – and know your body. This point was a main feature of stroke survivor Matt Hokenson’s story. Hokenson shared how his wife, Jenna, recognized warning signs like speech difficulties and took him to the local Ascension Seton emergency room for immediate care, saving his life. Hokenson, Jenna, and their three boys were present at CycleNation, cheering as he reminded everyone that one of the strongest things anybody can do is be vulnerable enough to ask for help.

Anne-Parker Coleman, sports reporter and anchor with media sponsor KVUE, brought excitement and energy to the event as emcee, focusing on how people can B.E. F.A.S.T. to recognize the signs of stroke, alongside Live Fierce, Be Relentless sponsor and B.E. F.A.S.T. sponsor Ascension Seton.

Austin CycleNation is a signature event of the American Heart Association that is designed to help companies positively impact employee overall health and wellbeing. The program is anchored in a series of events that inspire employees to be more engaged, reconnect with colleagues, get in their physical activity, support a great cause and have a lot of fun doing it.

“Heart disease and stroke touch all of us in some way or another,” said Cantu-Diaz. And I am so honored to have been a part of this event and help raise money for continued research, better awareness and hopefully helping make a positive impact.”

CycleNation Austin was presented by Comfort Systems USA – Central Texas. To learn more about this movement, or to find your next CycleNation event to participate, visit 2026 Austin CycleNation - American Heart Association or contact Amanda.Lilly@heart.org.

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

 

 

For Media Inquiries:

Michael Vybiral: michael.vybiral@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org