Hearts Bring Out Walkers
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WHEELING -- Local residents put a little heart into walking and exercising Thursday to raise awareness of the importance of cardiovascular health.
More than 470 participated in the Ohio Valley Heart Walk Thursday night at Wheeling Park sponsored by the American Heart Association.
Their collective efforts also raised nearly $62,000 for local heart disease research, according to Lauren Thomas, development director for the American Heart Association.
"That was even more than last year. I didn't think we could do it," she said. "This community really embraces this Heart Walk and the American Heart Association."
The event has been happening in the Ohio Valley "for over 30 years," she added. Money raised goes toward life-saving research happening in both West Virginia and Ohio.
"(The research) actually happens close to home, which is a good thing for people to know," she continued. "The Heart Walk also is good for awareness, and providing education to people on what they can do to prevent heart disease and stroke."
The American Heart Association advises people to maintain a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise, Thomas noted.
"This knowledge is important, as well as knowing if it is in your family - if you are prone to heart disease and stroke," she explained.
"Heart disease doesn't have to be an end-all be-all. You can still live a healthy life and still suffer from heart disease. We're honored to celebrate survivors with both the Heart Walk and Heart Ball, which happen annually in the Ohio Valley, and we're grateful for the support."
Those participating in the Heart Walk on Thursday were quick to point out that one doesn't even have to be at risk for heart disease to suffer a heart attack or stroke.
Health professional Maribeth Kesler said she was walking in honor of her boss - a 45-year-old male who was hit with a heart condition.
"He was healthy and in shape," she added. "If you don't think it can happen to you, it can."
Kesler was joined by others from her office at the Heart Walk who wanted to "speak up" for their boss and encourage others.
"We're doing it for ourselves and for him because we're a team," she said.
Dawn Theiss of Wheeling added she wanted to walk in honor of her cousin, who had a massive heart attack at the age of 35.
Phillip Carl, director of communications and marketing for WVU Medicine-Wheeling Hospital, said the hospital has been partnering with the American Heart Association "for decades."
"The mission they serve is very similar to the mission we serve," he continued. "It is health awareness, specifically focussed on heart health and stroke awareness."
The acronym FAST stands for recognizing the signs of a stroke, including "facial drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulties and time." WVU Medicine-Wheeling Hospital is a FAST-certified hospital system, according to Carl.
"Overall heart education and heart education is part of our mission to serve the public," he added.