LEXINGTON, KY (May 3, 2024) — Central Kentucky is uniting to celebrate the American Heart Association’s centennial birthday at the 2024 Central Kentucky Heart Walk. The American Heart Association and more than 1,500 community members will come together to celebrate heart and stroke survivors, raise lifesaving funds, and encourage physical activity at the annual walk on Saturday, May 11 at Keeneland in Lexington.
This annual premier event aims to boost physical and mental health through healthy habits while supporting the Association’s lifesaving mission. The theme of this year’s Heart Walk is “I Walk to Save Lives”. Heart disease and stroke impact people in very personal life-changing ways. Through the Heart Walk, participants are invited to express, share and be inspired by the reasons WHY they walk.
“In Kentucky, heart disease casts a long shadow over every community, impacting individuals and families alike,” said Dr. Robert DiPaola, Co-Executive VP for Health Affairs at UK HealthCare and Chair of the 2024 Central Kentucky Heart Walk. “That's why we're deeply proud to unite with the American Heart Association in pivotal engagement endeavors like the Heart Walk. Together, we're committed to raising awareness, promoting heart health, and fostering a culture of prevention.”
The Heart Walk festivities kick off at 8:00 a.m. with our Vendor Village, which includes fun activities, a Kids Zone, Hands-Only CPR demonstration and blood pressure screenings. The opening ceremony begins around 8:45 a.m. and is emceed by Big Blue TV and radio personality, Dick Gabriel. The walk begins at 9:00 a.m. and includes a 1 and 3-mile course.
“The Heart Walk is about getting people moving, celebrating life and caring for all of the hearts we love,” said Andrea Ooten, Executive Director the American Heart Association Lexington. “We're all tied to heart disease and stroke in some way, and we need to change that. By registering for the Heart Walk, you are taking the first step to save lives. Thank you to our walkers, sponsors and incredible volunteers who are supporting the fight against heart disease and stroke through the Central Kentucky Heart Walk.”
Individuals and teams can register online at www.heart.org/centralkywalk. From there, participants can download the Heart Walk mobile app and encourage friends and family to join in via e-mail, text or on social media.
The funds raised from the Central Kentucky Heart Walk goes toward research, advocacy, CPR training and to promote better health in support of the Association’s 2024 Health Equity Impact Goal, reducing barriers to health care access and quality. Visit www.heart.org to learn more.
The Central Kentucky Heart Walk is locally sponsored by Central Bank, along with UK HealthCare, Clark Regional Medical Center and Georgetown Community Hospital.
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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:
Afton Fairchild, Communications Director
Afton.Fairchild@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org