In an instant, life can change forever.

A heart attack. A stroke. A frightening diagnosis. A phone call in the middle of the night. For survivors and families, these moments don’t just happen to “other people.” They become part of our story.

Strides for Survivors was created to honor every person whose life has been touched by heart disease or stroke—survivors rebuilding their lives, caregivers who showed up every day, families who carried hope through uncertainty, and loved ones we carry with us in memory.

Recovery is not a straight line. It can mean relearning how to walk, talk, think, work, rest, trust your body again, or simply finding joy after trauma. It takes strength, support, education, research, and community. No one should have to face it alone.

That’s why we walk.

Every step we take helps support the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association—from stroke and heart disease research to CPR education, prevention efforts, advocacy, and survivor support. Just as importantly, we walk to remind survivors and families that they are seen, understood, and never alone in this journey.

Whether you are a survivor, caregiver, family member, healthcare worker, or someone walking in honor of a loved one, you belong here.

Join Strides for Survivors and walk with us as we turn survival into strength, awareness into action, and hope into healing.