TTUHSC Takes Steps Toward Better Heart Health

The 2014 Lubbock Heart Walk, benefiting the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association, is set for 9 a.m. Sept. 20 at the Frazier Alumni Pavilion.

Hundreds of individual walkers and local company and community teams will be taking steps to improve their heart health while raising funds and awareness for the American Heart Association in its fight against cardiovascular diseases.

Co-chairs for the event are Joanna Harkey, senior associate general counsel, and Thomas Tenner Jr., Ph.D., associate dean for Faculty Affairs and Development.

Approximately 2,400 Americans die from a cardiovascular disease every day; in fact, heart disease and stroke are America’s number one and number four killers, respectively. Studies show that a leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease is lack of physical activity, but that just 30 minutes a day of an activity like walking can improve your health and decrease your risk.

Tenner said this year’s Heart Walk includes a family-friendly three-mile walk, a health expo, entertainment and more. Participation is free and walkers who raise money are eligible for prizes.

“We would love to see a large participation from TTUHSC faculty, staff and students at this year’s Heart Walk,” Tenner said. “Talk to your department and co-workers about starting a team to participate. Many people are taking steps toward a heart-healthy lifestyle and building a healthier community and this walk is a great way for our university to get involved.”

Heart Walks combine fitness with philanthropy. Each year, more than 1 million walkers participate in nearly 350 Heart Walk events in cities across the country. Proceeds from these events go toward the American Heart Association’s research, education and community programs; 75 percent of the dollars raised remain in the local affiliate.

If you would like to participate in the Heart Walk or get your school, department or co-workers involved, email Harkey at Joanna.harkey@ttuhsc.edu.