Cadence Insurance’s David Theard announced as new Heart Walk Chair
NEW ORLEANS, Aug. 29, 2023 — Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death in Greater New Orleans and David Theard, employee benefits consultant at Cadence Insurance, is working hand-in-hand with the American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, to change that. Theard will serve as chairperson for the 2023 New Orleans Heart Walk and lead this community event focused on engaging local companies, corporations and their employees to join the fight against heart disease and stroke.
The 2023 New Orleans Heart Walk will begin at 9 a.m. (CT) on Saturday, November 18, at the Shrine on Airline – Lot E. At 8 a.m., there will be family activities, a t-shirt contest and more.
As chair of the 2023 Heart Walk, Theard will lead a team of eight Greater New Orleans executives to recruit companies and organizations in raising $300,000. Through this event, the leadership team and supporting organizations will raise funds for the American Heart Association while leading action-oriented conversations about employee health, corporate engagement, community health and community transformation. The executive committee members include:
Kyle Sharbonno – Gootee Construction
Natalie Naquin – Cornerstone Chemical Company
Eric Jones – AT&T
Rob Folse – Design the Planet
Cliff Worley
Katie Baumer – Gallo Mechanical
Lauren Marshall – Woodward Design+Build
Karl Weber – Atmos Energy
"I am excited to serve as chairman of the 2023 New Orleans Heart Walk and to be involved with such an important mission. Focusing on heart health can be tough in our great city, and the American Heart Association, through the Heart Walk and its other great events, puts heart health at the forefront of our minds,” said Theard.
“In addition, as we saw recently with the cardiac event experienced by Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin, anyone at any time can experience a life-threatening cardiovascular issue. The CPR methods used to save Damar Hamlin's life are integral to lifesaving efforts in many situations. The American Heart Association is at the forefront of ensuring communities throughout the New Orleans area have access to the CPR tools and training needed to continue this lifesaving work," Theard added.
The 2023 New Orleans Heart Walk is a way to get moving while socializing with friends, family and co-workers leading up to and on the day of the event. Walking in the Heart Walk boosts your heart health AND mental health while helping many others at the same time. The Heart Walk unites the community in celebrating health and honoring heart disease survivors.
“We are incredibly grateful for Theard and the Heart Walk executive committee leaders who are stepping up to move the needle when it comes to heart disease and stroke” said Coretta LaGarde, executive director, American Heart Association, Greater New Orleans. “Through the Heart Walk, we are able to drive maximum impact through employee engagement and corporate fundraising. Together, we can save lives right here in New Orleans.”
Heart disease and stroke are largely preventable and how you eat, move and manage stress impacts your well-being, physically and mentally. The funds raised at the walk supports the mission of the American Heart Association to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives while supporting priority issues in Greater New Orleans.
For more information about the Heart Walk, or to get your company involved, contact AHANewOrleans@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. 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 nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Mary Fein, mary.fein@heart.org
