MIAMI, Dec. 10, 2024 – The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, hosted the 2024 Miami-Dade Heart Walk on Saturday, November 23. Through the event, the Association raised over $543,000 to help advance CPR education, research and scientific innovation, and efforts to improve community well-being across South Florida.

The Heart Walk was chaired by Alex Almazan with Almazan Law, Frank Fernandez with Blue Prints 4 Safety, and Jose Romano with Zoo Miami Foundation. This year over 40 companies, 137 teams and over one thousand walkers came together at Florida International University.

“Heart Walk participants are making a huge impact on the health of our community,” said Alex Almazan, 2024 Miami-Dade Heart Walk co-chair. “Every step and every dollar supports research, CPR training, medical breakthroughs, and champions for equitable health. Together, we advance the American Heart Association’s mission for a healthier future.”

Highlights of the day included a live warmup by an HCA Florida Healthcare physician and the national anthem sung by local volunteer Grace Chaffins. Walkers learned hands-only CPR and checked their blood pressure. The event was hosted by Jenise Fernandez with Local 10 and Tavares Jones with WSVN.

“One of my favorite things about the Heart Walk is the feeling of community,” said Marisol Vera, executive director of the American Heart Association, Greater Miami and Fort Lauderdale. “It encourages people from all backgrounds to come together and live heart-healthy lives. The community's overwhelming support was key to our success this year. From local businesses to individual participants, everyone played a part in advancing our mission to improve heart and brain health.”

The event was made possible with the support of our local Miami-Dade Heart Walk sponsors: SCHILLER Americas, American AED, Baptist Heart & Vascular Care, Nicklaus Children’s Hosptial, UHealth - University of Miami Health System, ADP, Almazan Law, Amgen, Bermello Ajamil: A Woolpert Company, Boston Scientific, Florida Power & Light Company, HCA Florida Healthcare, LaCroix Sparkling Water, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Ryder System, Victoria Nursing & Rehabilitation.

“The Heart Walk is about movement, celebrating heart heroes, and caring for our community,” said Frank Fernandez, 2024 Miami-Dade Heart Walk co-chair. “Thank you to our sponsors, participants and volunteers for being a relentless force for heart health. Let’s keep going until heart disease is history.”

Donations in support of the Miami-Dade Heart Walk can still be made at MiamiDadeHeartWalk.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, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

For Media Inquiries:

Gabby Yibirin; gabby.yibirin@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org