Dover, DE, Jan. 6, 2025 — Ben Collins, senior director of operations for Bayhealth’s Cardiovascular Service Line, and Sarah Neely-Collins, oncology nurse practitioner at Bayhealth, are joining forces not just as healthcare professionals, but as husband and wife, to lead the 2025 American Heart Association Heart Walk in Southern Delaware. Together, they aim to build a community of lifesavers by mobilizing top executives throughout the region to recruit companies and organizations to join the Heart Walk, a year-round campaign that raises funds to fight cardiovascular disease while equipping people with the education, knowledge and resources to act in the face of a cardiac emergency by learning CPR.

The American Heart Association, a global force for longer, healthier lives, continues to emphasize CPR education as a critical component of the Heart Walk campaign. According to the Association, 9 out of 10 people who suffer cardiac arrest outside of a hospital die, yet immediate CPR can double or even triple the chances of survival. Alongside a team of executive leaders, the duo are committed to ensuring that more people in Southern Delaware are prepared to respond effectively in these life-or-death situations.

“The Heart Walk is an incredible chance for Southern Delaware to come together and address a life-and-death issue affecting so many,” said Jim Murphy, executive director of the American Heart Association in Delaware. “Cardiac arrest can happen without warning, and the key to survival is often the quick response of a bystander. This event goes beyond fundraising—it’s about equipping people with the skills and confidence to act when it matters most. With Ben and Sarah at the forefront, we’re excited to see the community rally to create more lifesavers and make a lasting impact.”

The Heart Walk, active in over 220 cities nationwide, is more than a fundraiser—it’s a movement that drives corporate involvement in the fight against cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death in Southern Delaware. This year, companies participating in the Heart Walk will play a crucial role in the American Heart Association’s Nation of Lifesavers™ initiative, a national effort aimed at doubling cardiac arrest survival rates by 2030.

“We imagine a future where CPR knowledge is as common as knowing how to call for help," said Collins. "Having a confident, trained lifesaver in every household across Delaware could transform outcomes during cardiac emergencies. By participating in the American Heart Association’s Heart Walk, companies are empowering our community to move from bystanders to action-takers, ensuring that when seconds count, someone is ready to make a lifesaving difference."

Sarah Neely-Collins echoed her husband’s sentiments, adding, “The Heart Walk is about uniting our community for a greater cause. As healthcare providers and as parents, we’re passionate about improving the health and well-being of families across Southern Delaware. Together, we hope to inspire others to take action and help save lives.”

The year-round Heart Walk campaign will culminate on November 2nd at the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand, where thousands of participants will walk to raise essential funds to advance lifesaving research, increase CPR education and training, and drive equitable health for all people.

Companies interested in participating can contact Laura Loro at laura.loro@heart.org . For more information about the Southern Delaware Heart Walk, visit www.heart.org/southerndewalk.

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

For Media Inquiries:

Athena Moustakas

845-545-4767

Athena.kerstanskimoustakas@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721) heart.org and stroke.org