FRESNO, Calif., Sept. 23, 2024 – The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, will hold the Central Valley Heart and Stroke Walk on Saturday, Sept. 28 at Tesoro Viejo in Madera. The annual event and fundraising campaign leading up to it are dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke, which remain among the top killers in the U.S. and California.

Among those participating is Aaron Vasquez, who will celebrate his birthday and his own heart journey during the event. “Last year I experienced a widowmaker heart attack. Because of quick action then, coupled with medical advancements the American Heart Association has championed for a century, I’m alive today. I walk for myself, my family and fellow survivors.”  

Funds raised through the event benefit the American Heart Association and support scientific research and programs that drive public health policy, set guidelines for medical care and educate the community. Locally in the Central Valley, the Association has helped expand access to lifesaving CPR skills, ensured local heart and stroke patients are connected to the latest science-based treatments via its hospital programs, and supported community members managing high blood pressure with tools and resources for better blood pressure control.

“We’re proud to support the Central Valley Heart and Stroke Walk this year as a sponsor, helping raise funds for important scientific research and encouraging our community to nurture their health,” said Cynthia Cervantes, MSN, RN, NP-c, Clinical Quality Director GBD at Anthem Blue Cross and an American Heart Association volunteer. “Studies show that committing to regular physical activity, like walking, has a significant positive impact on overall well-being and helps prevent more serious conditions such as heart disease and stroke.” 

The Association is also focused on raising awareness of Hands-Only CPR, with the goal of teaching at least one person in every household this lifesaving skill. Every year in the U.S., more than 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside the hospital, and more than 20% occur in public places such as airports and sporting facilities.[1] Survival depends on immediately receiving CPR from someone nearby, but most Americans report feeling helpless to act during a cardiac emergency. 

“CPR saved my life,” said Rima Maldonado, who is leading a walk team for the Central Valley Heart and Stroke Walk as a coach. “Thanks to the immediate response by my friends when I went into cardiac arrest, I’m here today and am determined to make sure others in the greater Fresno area learn CPR. You hope to never need it, but being prepared could mean the difference between life and death for someone you love.”

Event information:

Registration and event information is available at CentralValleyHeartWalk.org.

The event takes place on Saturday, Sept. 28, starting and finishing at the Tesoro Viejo Welcome Center (4150 Town Center Blvd, Madera, CA 93636).

Check-in and the expo area open at 8:00 a.m.

2-mile walk, with a ½-mile survivor route option, begins at 9:00 a.m.

Additional resources:

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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 the American Heart Association in the Central Valley at heart.org/NorthernCalifornia, on FacebookInstagram or X. by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

For Media Inquiries:

Lily Gordon: lily.gordon@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org