I joined the Heart Walk because I wanted to be a part of a movement that helps raise awareness and funds for cardiovascular disease and stroke, two of the leading causes of death in the United States. I also wanted to show my support for the important work that the American Heart Association (AHA) is doing to reduce the number of people affected by these diseases. Walking is an excellent, cost-effective, and simple way to get active and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. I am proud to join my community in the fight against heart disease and stroke and am hopeful that you will join me in this effort. 

Donations to the AHA Heart Walk is essential for funding research to determine advance treatments that could aid in prevention and possibly a cure for heart disease and stroke.  I am currently on medication for high cholesterol and this medication may not have been available had it not been for donations to the AHA for efforts in research. For that reason, I am grateful. 

The Heart Walk Campaign also provides support to people who are living with the aftereffects of having a stroke or having to live with complications of heart disease. About 5 years ago, my grandma was rushed to the hospital. She was experiencing pain in her chest, and it was ultimately determined that she needed a pacemaker placed in her heart that day. While the idea of her having such a serious surgery was scary, my family and I felt joy that we wouldn't have to say goodbye to her that day because someone-somewhere in the world thought it was necessary to donate to the AHA. For that reason, I am grateful. 

Donating allows you to help communities and families get the resources they need to lead healthier lives. Unfortunately, there are people/families that can't afford some of the more basic health care needs. The foods they consume, the education they receive, and the overpopulated healthcare systems will contribute to a future diagnosis or have them live with complications of heart disease and/or stoke. Your donation to the AHA has the possibility to change that narrative. For that reason, I will donate, and I hope you will too. 

Donating in memory of, in honor of, or simply because are all excellent reasons to give. As long as, you give from the best part of your HEART to support the best part of someone else's. 

As sung so beautifully in the movie The 5 Heartbeats, "Is there a HEART in the house tonight?"  If so, please donate and sign up to join our team to walk on March 25, 2023 at The SRP Park. 

Again, thank you and I look forward to your donation of time, money, or steps! 

Jacquetta