Richmond, VA, Oct. 15, 2024 — The Richmond community is coming together in a powerful way through the American Heart Association’s Heart Walk, uniting to save lives the week of World Restart a Heart Day. Nine out of 10 people who suffer cardiac arrest outside of the hospital die[1]. One key reason is that less than half of all cardiac arrest victims receive CPR from bystanders before professional help arrives[2].

To change this, the American Heart Association, celebrating 100 years of lifesaving service in 2024, is working with Richmond Heart Walk teams to inspire lifesaving action on World Restart a Heart Day, observed each year on October 16. On this day of action, the American Heart Association is calling on the community to register for the Richmond Heart Walk and learn the two easy steps to save a life.

“Through the Heart Walk, we have the power to inspire change and save lives,” said Michelle Nostheide, American Heart Association Central Virginia executive director. “Our goal is to equip every Heart Walk participant and supporter with the skills they need to respond confidently in a cardiac emergency. We are excited to turn our heart walkers in to a community of lifesavers this Saturday!”

The Heart Walk is a year-round campaign that not only raises critical funds for heart and brain research but also drives action by equipping people with lifesaving skills like Hands-Only CPR. Through community initiatives, the Heart Walk empowers participants to confidently step up in cardiac emergencies, with a goal of ensuring at least one person is every household is prepared to act. This year’s efforts will culminate in a community-wide celebration on Saturday, Oct. 19 where companies, families and individuals from across Central Virginia will unite, walking together in their shared commitment to saving lives.

All registered Heart Walk participants have the opportunity to learn Hands-Only CPR, which involves chest compressions without mouth-to-mouth breaths. This technique is scientifically proven to be just as effective in the first few minutes of a cardiac arrest for teens and adults[3]. If someone suddenly collapses, bystanders should immediately call emergency services and begin chest compressions at a rate of 100-120 beats per minute, pushing at least two inches deep.

The American Heart Association encourages everyone to take just 90 seconds to learn how to save a life by visiting www.heart.org/HandsOnlyCPR.

To learn more about the Richmond Heart Walk and how to get involved, visit RichmondVAHeartWalk.org.

###

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.orgFacebookX or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

 

For Media Inquiries:

Audry Dubon: audry.dubon@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org