HUNTINGTON, WV, April 18, 2024 — As the celebration of their centennial year continues, your American Heart Association is excited to partner with local businesses and community teams for the return of the Huntington Heart Walk, happening Saturday, April 20th, at Ritter Park. Registration opens at 9:30 a.m. with the walk starting at 10 a.m. Funds raised from the event will help fight the #1 and #5 killers of Americans – heart disease and stroke. This year’s Walk Chairs are Jason Shepherd and Sandy Lester (Peoples Bank). Jason Philyaw (TCR Country) will emcee the event.
“We are so excited to see the people of Huntington once again join together in this fight, as so many of us have been impacted by heart disease and stroke,” said Amanda Sosebee, Development Director for the American Heart Association. “We can’t wait to see all of the smiling faces of our community teams, volunteers, sponsors and, of course, our survivors.”
The morning will have many things to offer attendees, from snacks to the “Pup Parade”, sponsored by St. Mary’s Medical Center. Attendees will also hear from former Huntington Heart Walk Honorary Chair Sophie Gentry, who is a congenital heart defect survivor, as she shares an update on her story during the opening ceremonies.
Area sponsors include Dutch Miller Auto Group, Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital, St. Mary’s Medical Center/Regional Heart Institute, AT&T, Marshal Cardiology, Peoples Bank and Tri-State Wilbert Vault & Caskets. WCHS/WVAH TV, TCR FM, and KEE FM are the media supporters for this event.
“We can’t say thanks enough to our sponsors and community partners,” added Sosebee. “They helped us make this year’s Heart Walk a success and, without them, our mission to save lives couldn’t happen.”
Sosebee reminds attendees to look for survivors wearing their special Red Caps (heart survivor) and White Caps (stroke survivor). “If you want to know why you help, just look at our Red Cap and White Cap survivors,” Sosebee said. “They are all the motivation you need.”
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.
