ALBUQUERQUE, April 22, 2026 — For Martha S. Porter, the fight against heart disease and stroke isn’t theoretical — it’s personal. After losing her father to a massive heart attack, watching her mother survive a stroke, supporting her husband through cardiac arrest and managing high blood pressure herself, Porter understands how quickly cardiovascular disease can change a family forever.

That lived experience is what drives her volunteer leadership with the American Heart Association and what now brings her to a new role as chair of the 2026 New Mexico Heart Walk and 5K Run, set for Sept. 19.

“If by bringing awareness I can save one life, then my volunteer work would have been worth it,” Porter said.

Porter is leading a year‑round statewide effort to engage companies, organizations and families in raising lifesaving funds and expanding CPR education, a central focus of this year’s Heart Walk campaign. According to the American Heart Association, nine in 10 people who experience cardiac arrest outside the hospital do not survive, and more than half do not receive bystander CPR. Immediate CPR can double or triple a person’s chance of survival.

A lack of CPR knowledge has already changed Porter’s life.

“When my father had his heart attack, my mom did not know how to perform CPR,” Porter said. “They lived on the outskirts of Belen, and she was alone with him while waiting for help. The more people who know CPR in every household, the better.”

Heart Walk is the American Heart Association’s largest community‑facing initiative, uniting businesses, survivors and volunteers to promote physical activity, fund research and create equitable access to heart‑healthy education and resources. Under Porter’s leadership, New Mexico’s Heart Walk will continue its focus on building a community of lifesavers: neighbors prepared to act before emergency responders arrive.

“I never imagined that I would be leading the Heart Walk,” Porter said. “It’s an honor. I look forward to coming together as a community to promote physical activity, raise funds for a great cause and build greater awareness than we have in years past. If we’re doing that, then we’re helping save lives.”

Porter also sees Heart Walk as a powerful opportunity for companies to show their commitment to employee wellness and the community.

“This is a great opportunity to bring employees together for a heart‑healthy event,” she said. “It’s team building, and it shows the community you care about the American Heart Association’s mission of being a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. All funds raised stay right here in New Mexico.”

Porter brings more than three decades of experience in the banking industry, currently working at UMB Bank. She has held roles ranging from teller to associate national bank examiner and is known statewide for her strong leadership and community engagement. Porter previously served on the American Heart Association–New Mexico board of directors and returned in 2025 with a renewed focus on health equity.

“Martha’s deep roots in New Mexico and her personal connection to heart disease and stroke make her a powerful voice for our mission,” said Suzanne Mirabal, American Heart Association-New Mexico’s board of directors. “Her leadership, authenticity and commitment to building safer communities make her the right person to guide this year’s Heart Walk.”

The 2026 New Mexico Heart Walk and 5K Run will take place on Sept. 19 at Avanyu Plaza at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Hundreds of participants are expected to gather in celebration of survivors, in memory of those lost and in support of continued lifesaving progress across the state. The walk is supported by Delta Dental of New Mexico and Presbyterian Health.

Companies and individuals interested in participating can contact Sherri Wells at Sherri.Wells@heart.org or learn more and register at NewMexicoHeartWalk.org.

###

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 100 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

Cyd King: cyd.king@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org