Marquis Health Consulting Services Division President leads local movement aimed at improving brain health for all

Philadelphia, February 22, 2024 — The American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association - the leading voluntary health organization focused on heart and brain health for all, invites Philadelphia companies, communities and individuals to stop the cycle of stroke by raising critical funds to further research and education through CycleNation.

As 2024 CycleNation chair, Michael Smith, Division President, Marquis Health Consulting Services, will lead a team of top Philadelphia executives who will work to recruit companies and organizations to take part in the CycleNation movement. The efforts will culminate on September 19 at Fountain View at Logan Square in Philadelphia where teams will ride to raise awareness and funds to further the work of the American Stroke Association and the American Heart Association.

As a former cardiac ICU nurse and licensed nursing home administrator, Smith knows the importance of advancing cardiac research and his leadership in CycleNation is his way of contributing to that movement.

“What’s exciting about the CycleNation movement is that it’s not just a one-day event,” said Smith. “Participating companies and organizations become part of something bigger. We’re not only making a significant impact on the overall health of our community through our fundraising efforts, but this initiative is designed to improve employee engagement, wellness and overall workplace health.”

Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States and the leading cause of disability in older age. Each year approximately 800,000 people in the U.S. have a stroke.[1] While approximately 80% of those who have a stroke will survive, but the majority of these will remain with some degree of physical impairment or disability. Research shows that up to 80% of strokes may be prevented. Getting the recommended amount of physical activity is linked to lower risk of diseases, stronger bones and muscles, improved mental health and cognitive function and lower risk of depression.[2]

For more information about the Philadelphia CycleNation campaign or to get your company involved, visit 2024 Greater Philadelphia CycleNation - American Heart Association or contact Keisha Bailey-Garcia.

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About the American Stroke Association
The American Stroke Association is a relentless force for a world with fewer strokes and longer, healthier lives. We team with millions of volunteers and donors to ensure equitable health and stroke care in all communities. We work to prevent, treat and beat stroke by funding innovative research, fighting for the public’s health, and providing lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based association was created in 1998 as a division of the American Heart Association. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-888-4STROKE or visit stroke.org. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

For Local Inquiries: Trish Bradley | trish.bradley@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org