2024 North Country Heart Walk

Leadership

Our Volunteer Leadership makes all the difference. We depend on the time and talent of our volunteers to help us be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.

2024 North Country Heart Walk Chairperson

Dr. Mario Victoria
Chief Medical Officer
Samaritan Health
  

Dr. Mario Victoria, the Chief Medical Officer at Samaritan Health, said yes to the role of 2024 North Country Heart Walk chairperson because he has a passion for heart health.

“Cardiovascular disease is one of the main killers in this country,” he said. “The Heart Walk is an opportunity to come together to make a difference. I would love for as many people as possible to learn why it’s important to contribute. It’s not just about this year’s Heart Walk event. It’s about the future.”

Dr. Victoria has been with Samaritan Health for 23 years. He started in 2000 as a pediatrician, so he is especially passionate about children’s health and congenital heart disease.

“People don’t always think of congenital heart disease when they think about heart disease,” Dr. Vitoria said. “When congenital heart defects happen, you have to identify them quickly. If you don’t, they are often difficult and expense to treat. We’ve come a long way, but there is space for improvement.”

As chairperson, Dr. Victoria will lead the fundraising efforts for the North Country Heart Walk throughout the community. He hopes to encourage people to learn more about heart disease and the healthcare system itself.

The 2024 North Country Heart Walk marks the Centennial Celebration of the American Heart Association and the 30th anniversary of the North Country Heart Walk.