‘Community of Lifesavers’ raises over $1 million at Greater Maryland Heart Walk
BALTIMORE, October 30, 2024 — Thousands of lifesavers came together at the Greater Maryland Heart Walk on Saturday, Oct. 26, at the Maryland State Fairgrounds, raising more than $1 million to fund lifesaving heart and stroke research and community initiatives.
Heart disease is the No. 1 killer worldwide, and stroke ranks second globally.
The Greater Maryland Heart Walk featured survivors, individuals and teams from more than 60 companies who came together to take the first step to save lives.
“Everyone who participates in Heart Walk is making a significant impact on the health of the Baltimore and Greater Maryland community,” said Dr. Seth Martin, chairman of the 2024 Heart Walk and cardiologist at Johns Hopkins. “Every walker, every dollar means more research, more people trained in lifesaving CPR, more medical breakthroughs and more champions for equitable health.”
“Together, we are a community of lifesavers, advancing the American Heart Association’s mission and vision for a future of health and hope for everyone.”
CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield was the top fundraising company, with more than $90,000 raised, followed by MedStar Health and Johns Hopkins Medicine, which raised over $72,000 and $70,000 respectively.
Johns Hopkins was also the winner of the inaugural Hospital Cup Challenge, in which hospital systems earned points based on walker registration, fundraising, and carrying out mission components, such as sharing education about Hands-Only CPR.
Nine out of 10 people who suffer cardiac arrest outside of the hospital die. In most of those cases, bystander CPR was not performed. That is why the American Heart Association is broadening efforts to drive CPR education, awareness, and community initiatives through the Heart Walk, the Association’s largest community-facing initiative.
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 save and improve lives from cardiovascular diseases, the number one killer in Maryland and across the globe.
The Greater Maryland Heart Walk was presented by University of Maryland Medical System, Johns Hopkins Medicine, LifeBridge Health, MedStar Health and CompassOne Healthcare, along with other local supporters.
Donations are still being accepted toward this year’s Heart Walk. To donate and learn more, visit www.greatermarylandheartwalk.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 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:
Wayne Carter: wayne.carter@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
