David Morris, Executive Director of the American Heart Association Delaware and Mark Mumford, Chief Executive, Nemours Childrens Health, and 2022 Wilmington Heart Walk Chair, discussed the upcoming walk and the research and services it funds at the American Heart Association.

We talked about heart disease and stroke, the higher than national average rates of coronary and stroke-related deaths in Delaware. We shared our own stories of AHA victories, David learned about his hypertension, Lora about her life-saving stent surgery and Mark, the story of his daughter who was born with a congenital heart defect and his own life-threatening defib. All were resolved through research funded by the AHA.

David reminds us that 80% of cardiovascular disease is preventable and the Wilmington Heart Walk, a part of the Healthy For Good movement, is designed to rally us to live healthier lives with science-based recommendations, tools, tips and motivation to build healthier behaviors, including moving more and walking, adding color to your plate (fruits and vegetables) and knowing your numbers – meaning know your family history and your personal blood pressure and cholesterol baselines.  Their ‘Essential Eight’ is a simple guide to healthier practices, from eating better to getting enough sleep is an easy way to start incorporating better habits into your daily life.

This year’s Walk is Sunday, October 9, 2022 at 8:00AM at Tubman Garrett Park on the Riverfront in Wilmington.  They expect over 5,000 Delaware residents will turn out to support their work, learn about heart disease and stroke while getting a good bit exercise, and to help raise funds for their ongoing efforts.  There will also be family-friendly activities, entertainment, and giveaways

The Heart Walk is a FREE event but donations and fundraising is appreciated.  Mr Mumford notes that Nemours has been a long-time supporter of the walk and that it is important to them to participate in the Walk because they support their employees leading heart-healthy lives and as a leader in cardiovascular care, they want to be at the forefront of this important cause.  Nemours will be fielding a large team at the event.  For more information about the American Heart and Stroke Association and to get Essential Eight tips on preventing cardiovascular disease,  visit Heart.org  and, to register and get more details on the Walk, go to Heart.org/wilmingtonwalk