Thousands come to Pittsburgh for the American Heart Association's Heart Walk
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - More than 3,000 community members came to Point State Park in Downtown Pittsburgh on Saturday to support the American Heart Association and all the lifesaving work they do.
According to the AHA and the CDC, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, with one person dying from this illness every 33 seconds.
With staggering numbers like this, it is no wonder that thousands of people come out to support the American Heart Association and the Pittsburgh Heart Walk each year.
This year was the 29th annual Heart Walk, and Leeanna McKibben, the Board Chair of the American Heart Association, says that this event really brings people out and brings the community together.
"You know, it's an amazing event," said McKibben. "The energy and I think, the activation of the community surrounding health. This is a moment when, as a Pittsburgh community, we come together to make a difference in the health outcomes of the people we love. And what's not inspiring about that?"
One of the people participating today was Alice Lawson from New York City. Lawson says this is her 29th walk, and she says that she shows up every year in memory of her mother, who was taken far too soon by heart disease.
"I do it in honor and memory of my mom, who very suddenly passed away at 60 years of age," said Lawson. "She was in good health, so it is a good way to turn the grieving process into something positive and to try and help other people have tomorrows with those they love."
If you missed this year's event, don't worry, next year's event is shaping up to be a big one.
In 2024, the American Heart Association will be celebrating its 100th anniversary, and the Pittsburgh Heart Walk will be hosting its 30th walk. Even if you can't make it out, however, you can donate and volunteer with the AHA all year long.
For more information on the American Heart Association and the Pittsburgh Heart Walk, click here.