Team Kern is back for a second shot at the Hampton Roads Heart Walk, but our “why” remains the same as ever (see below for last year’s intro).  We are fully committed to spreading the word about the incredible mission and work performed by the American Heart Association, so much so that this year we are actually chairing the event!

Did You Know?

• Heart Disease is the #1 cause of death in the United States
• Every 40 seconds, someone has a heart attack
• 1 in 3 Americans has some form of cardiovascular disease
• The AHA has funded 14 Nobel prize-winning scientists
• The AHA is investing $2.5m to investigate cardiovascular implications of coronavirus

Unfortunately, with Covid-19 the 2020 event will have to be a virtual one, but that is not stopping the AHA from continuing to fund life-saving research, developing educational programs, spearheading legislation, and making a tremendous impact in our local community (and all around the country).  Arguably, the need for continued funding is stronger than ever.

Last year, in our first ever walk, Team Kern was the largest single fundraiser in all of Hampton Roads, raising more than $8,000!  After such a successful inaugural campaign, we will be upping the ante this year and setting a fundraising target of $10,000.  We’ll once again be kickstarting that effort with a personal donation of $1,000 and hope you will consider joining us in supporting the AHA this year.  Thank you in advance your consideration.

- Scott, Trisha and Katie

Our 2019 Intro Statement

Slightly more than 18 months ago, I suffered a sudden cardiac arrest and nearly died.  My co-workers immediately administered life-saving CPR and electrical shock from a nearby AED.  Countless doctors, nurses, family members, friends and even complete strangers cared for and prayed for me for the next several months.  After a very long road, I eventually recovered and returned to what has now become our new normal.

Life is very different these days than it was before February 19, 2018.  I exercise a lot more.  I eat a nearly 100% plant-based diet.  I say yes to now and don't wait for later.  And I am contributing more to our community and doing everything I can to prevent others from experiencing what I went through or even worse.

I have joined the board of the local chapter of the American Heart Association and am working with this wonderful organization to get everyone possible trained on hands only CPR, to spread the word on AED education and how easy it can to be save a life, to advocate for heart healthy eating and exercise habits, and so much more.

It all begins now with my first ever participation in the AHA's Heart Walk this coming November 2nd.  Trisha, Katie and I will be walking together to spread the word about heart disease and the millions of people it impacts every year.  We will be walking to raise money for this noble cause, to support community education programs, and to help fund research that could one day cure heart disease and stroke.

More than anything, we would love for as many people as possible to join us on our walk and to help spread this mission.  If you cannot join us, we would still love your support in the form of a donation to Team Kern and the AHA.  Every dollar counts.  Our goal is to raise $5000, and we have kicked it off with a personal donation of $500, so we're already 10% of the way there!  Please consider helping us reach our goal.  Thank you.

Love,
Scott, Trisha and Katie