Wayne County Heart Walk: Transforming Bystanders into Lifesavers
The American Heart Association is gearing up for its largest community-facing event in Wayne County, Ohio, during its Centennial Year. This initiative aims to drive critical CPR awareness and empower individuals to step up and save lives in emergency situations. With nine out of ten people who suffer cardiac arrest outside of the hospital succumbing to their condition due to the lack of bystander CPR, the need for education and action is more crucial than ever.
The 2024 Wayne County Heart Walk invites local businesses, friends, and neighbors to come together to make a difference. By participating in the event and donating to the cause, individuals can contribute to increasing the number of people trained in lifesaving CPR, funding essential research, and creating more lifesaving moments in the community. This year’s event is scheduled for Thursday, September 19, starting at 5:00 p.m. with the Healthy for Good Festival at Kean Elementary in Wooster.
Empowering the Community
At the Heart Walk, participants will have the opportunity to engage in health screenings and hands-only CPR demonstrations, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to intervene in emergencies effectively. The event will also feature a “Kids Zone” for younger attendees to enjoy activities and learn about the importance of heart health. Additionally, leashed pets are welcome to join in the festivities, making it a family-friendly affair for all.
Led by co-chairs Scott Boyes, Chief Executive Officer at Wooster Community Hospital, and Adam Briggs, Investment Advisor at Briggs & Starr, the Wayne County Heart Walk embodies the spirit of community collaboration in the fight against heart disease. Both Boyes and Briggs emphasize the significance of the American Heart Association’s mission in promoting a healthier lifestyle and advancing cardiovascular health in Wayne County.
Supporting CPR Education and Research
Funds raised from the Heart Walk will directly support CPR education, training, and awareness initiatives within the local community. By engaging in fundraising efforts, educational programs, and corporate partnerships, the event aims to enhance accessibility to CPR training, increase bystander preparedness, allocate resources for critical research, and ultimately save lives from cardiovascular diseases, the leading cause of death in Wayne County.
As the American Heart Association’s largest community-facing initiative, the Heart Walk has the potential to reach millions of individuals nationwide. In 2024, as the organization celebrates its Centennial, marking 100 years of impactful work in promoting heart health and longevity, the focus remains on driving innovation, research, and advocacy for a world of longer, healthier lives for all.
Joining the Movement
To participate in the Wayne County Heart Walk, individuals and teams can register online through the American Heart Association’s designated platform. By signing up and getting involved, participants not only support a worthy cause but also become part of a collective effort to transform bystanders into lifesavers and make a tangible impact on the health and well-being of their community.
In conclusion, the Wayne County Heart Walk stands as a beacon of hope and empowerment, rallying individuals from all walks of life to come together and effect positive change in the fight against heart disease. Through education, awareness, and action, the community can turn the tide on cardiovascular health and save lives one step at a time.