PHOENIX, Arizona, November 28, 2023 —The American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, is bringing the West Valley together for the first ever 2023 West Valley Heart Walk dedicated to raising lifesaving funds and bolstering community partnerships. The event theme is, “I Walk to Save Lives,” and underscored the importance of living a physically active, tobacco-free and healthy lifestyle in the fight against the nation’s No. 1 and No. 5 killers, heart disease and stroke.

By joining and donating to the West Valley Heart Walk and supporting the lifesaving mission of the Association, participants will safeguard that fewer people die from heart disease and stroke. The funds raised go towards 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.

“The Heart Walk will be such a special day for the West Valley and broader Phoenix community. I’m humbled by the support of those dedicating their Saturday morning to supporting the Association’s lifesaving mission,” said Hans Driessnack, CEO Abrazo West Hospital and Chairman of the 2023 West Valley Heart Walk.

The event will start with a festival and health expo area with top sponsors, featuring activations centered on honoring survivors and caregivers through living a heart healthy lifestyle.  Additional highlights include an energizing warm-up, local bands, and a special surprise guest. The West Valley Heart Walk will be emceed by Veronica Quintero, weather anchor for Noticiero Telemundo Arizona.

The Heart Walk inspires longer and healthier lives with an estimated 50+ companies and West Valley community members showing their support to ensure critical mission advancements continue. The event was made possible with the support of local 2023 Heart Walk Sponsors, including: Abrazo Health, City of Hope, DPR Construction, AZ Complete Health, Desert Financial Credit Union, Estrella, Core Construction, Verde Clean, Sun Health, Telemundo, Optum, and KTAR News.

“I have been affected by heart disease both personally and professionally, and I see the effects of unmanaged heart disease on a daily basis in our hospitals. The West Valley Heart Walk is a great opportunity to show people how they can improve the quality of their life and come together as a community,” said Driessnack.

Visit westvalleyheartwalk.org to learn more. 

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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 us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.  

 

For Media Inquiries:

Daniel Ruacho at daniel.ruacho@heart.org or 480-773-2355

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

heart.org and stroke.org