The American Heart Association is gearing up for the 2024 New Mexico Heart Walk and Run, set to take place at Avenyu Plaza on Saturday, September 14. This annual event is a vital fundraiser that supports heart research and promotes heart-healthy lifestyle programs across the state. Participants from all corners of New Mexico are encouraged to lace up their sneakers and join in the festivities, with the goal of raising approximately $200,000 for this important cause.
Turning Bystanders into Lifesavers
The New Mexico Heart Walk and Run is not just a fun-filled event for families and fitness enthusiasts—it’s also an opportunity to learn life-saving skills. The funds raised from the event go towards CPR and AED education and awareness through the American Heart Association’s Nation of Lifesavers initiative. By participating in the walk and run, attendees are not only supporting heart health research but also equipping themselves with the knowledge to potentially save a life in the event of a cardiac emergency.
One of the highlights of the event is the celebration and recognition of heart attack, heart surgery, and stroke survivors. These individuals are given a red cap to wear during the event, symbolizing their resilience and determination in overcoming significant health challenges. Among the survivors being honored this year is Elizabeth “Liz” Nauman, a Santa Fe native who was born with a serious heart defect known as dextro-transposition of the great arteries. Despite undergoing multiple surgeries and procedures, Nauman remains a beacon of strength and positivity, inspiring others with her story of survival and perseverance.
Empowering the Community
The New Mexico Heart Walk and Run is not just about raising funds—it’s about empowering the community to take charge of their heart health. By participating in the event, individuals are not only supporting critical research and education initiatives but also fostering a sense of unity and empowerment. The event serves as a reminder that heart disease and stroke can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, and that by coming together as a community, we can make a real difference in the fight against these deadly conditions.
The support for the New Mexico Heart Walk and Run extends beyond the participants themselves. The event is made possible through the generous contributions of sponsors like Delta Dental, Bradberry Stam, Optum Health, Lovelace Health System, and Presbyterian Health Plan/The Solutions Group. Local support from organizations like Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Albuquerque also plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of the event and the impact it has on the community.
Celebrating Resilience and Determination
Liz Nauman’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Despite facing numerous health challenges throughout her life, Nauman has remained steadfast in her commitment to living life to the fullest and cherishing every moment. Her journey serves as an inspiration to others, showing that with the right mindset and support system, anything is possible.
As a survivor of a serious heart defect, Nauman understands the importance of raising awareness about heart health and the need for continued research and education. By sharing her story and participating in events like the New Mexico Heart Walk and Run, she hopes to inspire others to take control of their heart health and prioritize their well-being. Nauman’s message is clear: we all face challenges in life, but it’s how we choose to respond to them that defines our journey.
Supporting a Noble Cause
The American Heart Association has been a leading force in promoting heart and brain health for over a century. Through its innovative research, community outreach initiatives, and advocacy efforts, the organization has made significant strides in reducing heart disease and stroke mortality rates. However, there is still much work to be done, especially in ensuring that all communities have access to equitable health resources and support.
As the 2024 New Mexico Heart Walk and Run approaches, the American Heart Association is calling on individuals across the state to join in the fight against heart disease and stroke. By participating in the event, attendees not only show their support for critical research and education programs but also demonstrate their commitment to building a healthier, more resilient community. Together, we can turn bystanders into lifesavers and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by heart disease and stroke.