Fresno, Calif., June 12, 2023 — Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death in the Central Valley, and Luckvinder “Lucky” Malhi, vice president of cardiac services for Community Health System, is working hand-in-hand with the American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, to change that. Malhi will serve as chairman for the 2023 Central Valley Heart and Stroke Walk, a community campaign focused on engaging local companies, corporations and their employees to join the fight against heart disease and stroke. 

“Both of my parents had open heart surgery and it is because of that I want to do everything I can to support the American Heart Association and its mission to fight heart disease,” Malhi said. 

As chairman of the Heart and Stroke Walk, Malhi will lead a team of Central Valley executives to recruit companies and organizations to take part in the event, which takes place on Saturday, October 28 at Tesoro Viejo in Madera. 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. 

Also serving in leadership roles on the Central Valley Heart and Stroke Walk Executive Leadership Team are:

  • Lynn Bailey, area president, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.
  • Alberta Boran, community volunteer
  • Haley Wagner, area vice president, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.

“We are incredibly grateful for these leaders who are stepping up to move the needle when it comes to heart disease and stroke,” said Kelley Berry, executive director of the American Heart Association in the Central Valley. “Through the Heart and Stroke Walk, we are able to drive maximum impact through employee engagement and corporate fundraising. Together, we can save lives right here in Central Valley.”

Heart disease and stroke are largely preventable and how you eat, move and manage stress impacts your well-being, physically and mentally. Participants in the Heart and Stroke Walk have access to resources, tools and activities to support both mental and physical well-being for employers and employees. 

For more information about the Central Valley Heart Walk or to get your company involved, contact gina.chicconi@heart.org or visit centralvalleyheartwalk.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 the Central Valley office on heart.org/CentralValley, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

For media inquiries:

Kate Lino: t-kate.lino@heart.org

Valerie Koch: valerie.koch@heart.org 

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

heart.org and stroke.org