Heart Transplant Survivor’s Inspiring Story to Be Featured as the American Heart Association Celebrates 100 Years of Lifesaving Work
WESTCHESTER, N.Y. – September 25, 2024 – The American Heart Association, a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives, will host its annual Westchester Heart Walk on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at the Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla, N.Y. The event will raise awareness and funds to fight cardiovascular disease, including stroke, which remains the leading cause of death in the United States and in Westchester.
This year’s Westchester Heart Walk holds special significance as the American Heart Association celebrates its 100th anniversary of lifesaving work. Thousands of participants from the community are expected to join the movement to improve heart health through education, research and advocacy.
The Heart Walk will also feature the inspiring story of heart transplant survivor Jennifer Mayadas-Dering, who was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, a condition that weakens the heart and can lead to heart failure. At 51, with no prior history of heart problems, she was told she needed a new heart. Three weeks later, Mayadas-Dering received a lifesaving heart transplant from a 28-year-old organ donor named Sarah. Her story highlights the incredible power of organ donation and the importance of heart health.
“Heart disease and stroke impact so many lives, but together, we have the power to create healthier futures for our communities,” said Travis Tam, Westchester Heart Walk Director. “This walk is a great reminder of the progress we’ve made, and the work still ahead of us to address the impact of cardiovascular diseases.”
Sponsors of this year’s walk include Danone North America, DLA Piper, WMC Health, Fujifilm, NewYork-Presbyterian, Burke Rehabilitation, Jackson Lewis P.C., Phelps Hospital and White Plains Hospital.
To register for the event or to donate, visit WestchesterHeartWalk.org or contact Travis Tam at Travis.Tam@heart.org.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Bong Arquiza: bong.arquiza@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org