Greater Washington Heart Walk

“Building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.” The Mission of the American Heart Association speaks for itself.  Through its many events and initiatives, the American Heart Association raises funds and awareness in an effort to make sure that all Americans have the resources and tools to lead heart healthy lives. This year’s Greater Washington Heart Walk was no exception.  The participants rose to the occasion, raising 1.6 million dollars!  
 

I had the privilege of participating in the Walk and getting to know some of the participants.  One team in particular touched my heart.  They were called the “Monkays” and they were walking on behalf of their friend who they had lost to a heart attack.  He was only in his early thirties when it happened.  For them, it was a wake up call that encouraged them to lead healthier lives.  A lot of us associate Heart Disease with being older, but that simply isn’t the case.   Heart Disease affects people of all ages, it does not discriminate.  That is why organizations such as the AHA are important.  Their advocacy efforts have saved the lives of millions of Americans and that number will only increase as they continue to gain momentum. This is why International Pageant’s alliance with the AHA’s Go Red For Women Campaign is so important.   It presents an opportunity for all of us to get involved!



Ciji Dodds