ORLANDO, Fla., Nov. 18, 2024 – In the U.S., only 1 in 10 people survive cardiac arrest outside of a hospital. Immediate CPR can double or even triple their chances of survival. Recognizing this critical need, a local executive and organizations came together to lead the American Heart Association’s 2024 Greater Orlando Heart Walk, focusing on increasing CPR education and raising funds for heart health.
Tom Langer of Brooks Rehabilitation was at the helm of this year’s campaign, with strong support from various local organizations and over 18,000 participating walkers.
The event took place on November 9 at the University of Central Florida’s Memory Mall in Orlando. It brought together families, friends and colleagues for heart-healthy activities and a scenic 3-mile walk. This year’s Heart Walk was especially significant as it coincided with the American Heart Association’s centennial celebration.
“Reaching a centennial milestone is a remarkable achievement for any organization. I was honored to be part of the American Heart Association’s mission to save lives,” said Langer. “The Heart Walk is a powerful platform for raising funds for heart and stroke research, educating the public on the signs of heart attacks and strokes, teaching CPR, and promoting simple lifestyle changes for better health. This knowledge is lifesaving.”
Langer was instrumental in mobilizing local executives and organizations to support the American Heart Association’s vital research and initiatives. He engaged his organization and other local organizations to join the AHA’s mission, fostering a community-wide effort to improve heart health.
“Supporting the American Heart Association’s mission to create health equity for all is incredibly important,” Langer emphasized. “We were excited to participate in the Heart Walk again this year and looked forward to joining colleagues, friends, family and neighbors in raising awareness and funds for this crucial cause. By promoting health equity, we can significantly enhance community well-being and ensure everyone has the opportunity to lead a healthier life.”
The Greater Orlando Heart Walk offered resources, tools and activities to support both mental and physical well-being for companies and the community. Highlights from the event also included an energizing Zumba warm-up hosted by HCA Florida Healthcare’s LaShondra Hawkins, a national anthem performance by UCF Soprano/Alto Chorus, and enthusiastic co-host appearances by Magic 107.7’s dynamic duo Leslye Gayle and Chad Pitt.
Langer’s commitment to heart health is deeply personal, as it holds significant importance for his family. “It was a privilege to contribute to making the Greater Orlando community healthier and happier, one step at a time,” he shared.
Brooks Rehabilitation, in collaboration with the below local organizations, achieved their ambitious fundraising targets, surpassing last year’s record of $1.1 million by raising over $1.3 million this year.
Local 2024 Heart Walk sponsors include the Getting to the Heart of Stroke™ sponsor HCA Florida Healthcare, Live Fierce! Life is Why sponsor AdventHealth, Orlando Health, Walgreens, Brooks Rehabilitation, ADP, Brasfield & Gorrie, Enterprise Mobility, Gilbane Building, JP Morgan & Chase, Mitsubishi Power, Orlando Regional Realtor Foundation, T-Mobile, TLC Engineering Solutions, AvMed, Florida Blue, Burns & McDonnell, Barton Malow, Nelson Mullins, Duda & Sons, RLF Architects Engineers Interiors, and BBM Structural Engineers, Inc.
For more information, visit GreaterOrlandoHeartWalk.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 our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Instagram and X.
For Media Inquiries:
Emory Parkins, emory.parkins@heart.org