William Carey University president takes the helm to save lives in Hattiesburg at Pine Belt Heart Walk November 16

JACKSON, Miss, Oct. 29, 2024 - The American Heart Association, a global force for  healthier lives for all, will host walkers and volunteers at the annual Pine Belt Heart Walk at 9:00 a.m., Saturday, November 16 at William Carey University. Dr. Ben Burnett, president of William Carey University, will lead the charge as the American Heart Association Heart Walk chair to build a community of lifesavers in Hattiesburg.

Under Burnett’s leadership, top executives throughout the Pine Belt unite to recruit companies and organizations to join the Heart Walk, a year-round campaign aimed at raising funds to fight cardiovascular disease, while equipping people with the education, knowledge and resources to act in the face of a cardiac emergency by learning CPR.

The American Heart Association, celebrating 100 years of lifesaving service in 2024, has put a spotlight on CPR education as a critical element of the Heart Walk campaign. According to the Association, nine out of 10 people who suffer cardiac arrest outside of a hospital die [1] yet immediate CPR can double or even triple the chances of survival [2].

Burnett, the Association, and a team of top executive leaders are committed to ensuring that more people in Hattiesburg are prepared to respond effectively in these life-or-death situations.

“The Heart Walk gives the Pine Belt residents and employees an extraordinary opportunity to address a critical issue in our community” said Eve Elias Bauer, American Heart Association Heart Walk director. Cardiac arrest can strike anyone, anywhere, and the difference between life and death often hinges on the quick actions of a bystander. Through the Heart Walk, we are not just raising funds; we are raising awareness, enhancing CPR training, and building a network of lifesavers throughout Hattiesburg. With Burnett at the helm, we are confident this year’s campaign will have an even greater impact in saving lives.”

The Heart Walk, active in over 220 cities nationwide, is more than a fundraiser—it’s a movement that drives corporate involvement in the fight against cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death in Hattiesburg. This year, companies participating in the Heart Walk will play a crucial role in the American Heart Association’s Nation of Lifesavers™™ initiative, a national effort aimed at doubling cardiac arrest survival rates by 2030.

"We envision a future where at least one person in every household knows CPR. The impact of having a trained, confident lifesaver in every home in the Pine Belt cannot be overstated," Burnett said.

“By joining the American Heart Association’s Heart Walk, companies are helping transform our community from bystanders into lifesavers, ensuring that when a cardiac emergency occurs, someone is ready to step in and make a difference."

The American Heart Association is a global leader in resuscitation science, education, and training, and the official publisher of CPR guidelines. Through the Nation of Lifesavers initiative, the Association is committed to empowering individuals everywhere to act in the event of a cardiac emergency, making sure that no one is left without the help they need when seconds count.

Companies interested in participating can contact Heart Walk director Eve Bauer at eve.bauer@heart.org. For more information about the Pine Belt Heart Walk, visit Pine Belt Heart Walk.

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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. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.     

For Media Inquiries: 214-706-1173

Mary Brinson, mary.brinson@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org