BOSTON, Nov. 5, 2024 – Nearly 2,500 survivors, business leaders, medical professionals, and community members gathered on Boston Common on Saturday, Oct. 26, for the annual Boston Heart Walk.
Representing over 45 companies and dozens of community teams, participants raised more than $1 million to support the American Heart Association’s mission to advance CPR education, fund cutting-edge research and scientific innovation, and improve community well-being across Greater Boston and beyond.
This year’s Heart Walk coincided with the American Heart Association’s centennial celebration, reflecting on 100 years of groundbreaking research and impact. Yet, the need remains urgent: heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death in the United States, with stroke ranking fifth. Each year, over 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals, but bystander CPR is administered less than half the time.
The event highlighted the importance of building a Nation of Lifesavers by training more people in hands-only CPR. Volunteer Heart Walk Chair Scott Daley, general manager of U.S. business for Reebok and a heart surgery survivor, led the event. Jennifer Peñate, weekend evening anchor and reporter for WCVB Channel 5 Boston, emceed the program. The day included a warm-up session led by Catyn Piver Blum from Everybody Fights and featured the national anthem performed by stroke survivor Valerie Giglio from Stoneham.
Honoring Local Survivor Stories
Inspiring stories of survival and resilience were shared on stage, including:
- Ron Gilberto: In 2021, Ron collapsed from a cardiac arrest at home. His daughter, Claire, along with her mom and brother, performed CPR, saving his life.
- Jackie DeFusco: Born with a congenital heart defect, Jackie underwent life-saving open-heart surgery in 2016. Her family now passionately supports research into congenital heart disease.
- Kevin Moran: After receiving a Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) during open-heart surgery, Kevin suffered a heart attack this summer. Thanks to a quick medical response and research funded by the American Heart Association, he continues to inspire others.
Industry Cup Winners
Local businesses engaged in a friendly fundraising competition through the Industry Cup. The 2024 winners were:
- Consumer Goods: Reebok
- Financial Services: PwC
- Health Care and Insurance: Merrimack Valley Cardiology
- Health and Wellness: John Lavoie Training
- Hospitals (sponsored by Lantheus): Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
- Pharma, Manufacturing, and Medical Device: Kiniksa Pharmaceuticals
- Technology Services: Snyk
A Community United
The event was made possible thanks to the generous support of local sponsors Abbott, Accenture, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospitals, EY, HEYDUDE, JPMorgan Chase & Co., Kiniksa Pharmaceuticals, Lantheus, Mass General Brigham, Mass General Brigham Health Plan, Medtronic, PwC, scPharmaceuticals, and Verve Therapeutics. WCVB Channel 5 Boston served as the media sponsor.
Donations to the Boston Heart Walk will be accepted through the end of 2024. Visit bostonheartwalk.org to contribute and help the American Heart Association continue saving lives.
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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 Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 – our Centennial year – we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Instagram, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Chris Camire
Senior Marketing Communications Director
978-758-4908; chris.camire@heart.org