Dallas, November 10, 2019 –The staff and volunteers of the American Heart Association are shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Bernard J. Tyson, Chairman and CEO of Kaiser Permanente, who unexpectedly passed away in his sleep on November 10. On behalf of the American Heart Association and its vast network of 40 million volunteers and supporters, we extend our deepest sympathies to Bernard's wife Denise, his children and family and the many people whose lives have been improved by his service.
Bernard stood for so many things that made a positive difference as a dynamic leader and champion for high-quality, affordable health care for all Americans. He advocated tirelessly for social justice and equal access to care for all people in communities far and wide.
Bernard served on the Board of Directors for the American Heart Association and was a member of the AHA CEO Roundtable where he was a fierce proponent of workplace diversity and inclusion and a thought leader on mental health.
"Bernard was a friend first,” said Nancy Brown, CEO American Heart Association. “We have lost a passionate leader and an honorable man. His visionary leadership and powerful ideas transformed the healthcare landscape in this country and around the world, allowing people to live longer, healthier lives. I will miss him greatly."
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For public inquiries please contact:
800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and strokeassociation.org
