BALTIMORE, October 1, 2024 — Dr. Seth Martin, a cardiologist with Johns Hopkins Medicine and president of the local American Heart Association Board of Directors, has stepped up to lead the charge as the 2024 American Heart Association Heart Walk Chair to build a community of lifesavers in Greater Maryland.

Under Martin’s leadership, top executives throughout the Baltimore region will unite to recruit companies and organizations to join the Heart Walk, a campaign aimed at raising 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, which has been saving lives for more than 100 years, has put a spotlight on CPR education as a critical element of the Heart Walk campaign. According to the Association, nine out of 10 people who suffer cardiac arrest outside of a hospital die[1] yet immediate CPR can double or even triple the chances of survival[2].

Dr. Martin and a team of top executive leaders are committed to ensuring that more people in Maryland are prepared to respond effectively in these life-or-death situations.

“The Heart Walk gives Maryland residents an extraordinary opportunity to address a critical issue in our community” said Dr. Martin. “Cardiac arrest can strike anyone, anywhere, and the difference between life and death often hinges on the quick actions of a bystander. Through the Heart Walk, we are not just raising funds; we are raising awareness, enhancing CPR training, and building a network of lifesavers throughout Maryland.”

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 Maryland. 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 envision a future in which at least one person in every household knows CPR," said Dr. Martin. "The impact of having a trained, confident lifesaver in every home across Maryland cannot be overstated. By joining the American Heart Association’s Heart Walk, companies are helping to turn our community from bystanders into lifesavers, ensuring that when a cardiac emergency occurs, there is someone ready to step in and make a difference."

The American Heart Association is a global leader in resuscitation science, education, and training, and the official publisher of CPR guidelines. Through the Nation of Lifesavers initiative, the Association is committed to empowering individuals everywhere to act in the event of a cardiac emergency, making sure that no one is left without the help they need when seconds count.

The Heart Walk campaign will culminate on Saturday, October 26, at the Maryland State Fairgrounds, where thousands of participants will walk to save lives while raising essential funds to advance lifesaving research, increase CPR education and training and drive equitable health for all people. Companies interested in participating can contact Elizabeth Lewis at elizabeth.lewis@heart.org. For more information about the 2024 Heart Walk, 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. 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