Turning student voices into action: advocating for CPR in schools in Massachusetts

High school students from across Massachusetts gathered at the State House to advocate for legislation that would make CPR training a requirement for graduation. Through student voices and newly produced videos from the event, the American Heart Association is highlighting why CPR education matters — and how empowering the next generation with lifesaving skills could help save lives across the state.

Cold storage, warm hearts: Helping Hand Food Pantry expands healthy food access in Greater Boston

A decades-old food pantry in Cambridge is expanding access to fresh, nutritious food with support from the American Heart Association, showing how investments can have a real impact on community health.

Local media highlight Libraries With Heart’s expansion into Western Massachusetts

Libraries in Greenfield and Montague are the latest in Massachusetts to join Libraries With Heart, offering blood-pressure monitor kits for patrons to borrow at home. This expansion builds on recent launches in Franklin and Brockton, helping bring heart-health tools into trusted community spaces.

In this Massachusetts city, a library card can now help save your heart

A new American Heart Association program at the Brockton Public Library makes heart health simple with a free self-service blood pressure monitor in the lobby and loaner cuffs to track numbers at home.

Local leaders unite for a healthier Central Massachusetts 

The American Heart Association has announced its 2025–2026 Central Massachusetts Board of Directors — local leaders guiding lifesaving research, education and community health initiatives to advance heart and brain health for every family in the region.

In Massachusetts, a 10-year-old thrives after life-saving heart surgery

Born with a congenital heart defect, Josie Pina had surgery as an infant. Today she’s a thriving 10-year-old and walks to raise awareness for heart health.

At 40, he nearly died of a heart attack. Now this Massachusetts man is helping others live healthier lives.

After a widow maker heart attack at 40, Brookline, Mass., father Vic Viktorov reshaped his life around health, family, and helping others live better.

Three years after a stroke, Boston woman walks to save lives

Alissa Smith, a Boston stroke survivor, is raising awareness and support through the Boston Heart Walk and the American Heart Association.

Bright futures in Boston: SURE Scholars share their passion for science and health

The American Heart Association recently hosted a reception in Wellesley, Mass., to celebrate Boston-based SURE Scholars — aspiring scientists and future healthcare leaders who spent the summer conducting research alongside American Heart Association-funded mentors.

Teleflex and Vitality Road executives lead movement to improve women’s heart health in Greater Boston

Executives are leading the 2026 Go Red for Women campaign in Greater Boston to raise awareness about the No. 1 killer of women—cardiovascular disease—and empower local communities to take charge of their heart health.

45 hospitals in Massachusetts recognized for efforts to improve outcomes for Americans with heart disease and stroke

The American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® initiative promotes up-to-date, research-based guidelines to ensure all patients have access to lifesaving care Forty-five hospitals in Massachusetts are among the 4,800 nationwide that participate in the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® initiative to improve outcomes for Americans who experience heart disease or stroke. Heart … Read more

Fit and healthy at 45, Massachusetts man looked into a mild symptom. It might have saved his life.

When Scott Daley felt a tingling sensation in his arm, he almost ignored it. But checking in with his doctor led to a diagnosis that required quadruple bypass surgery and may have saved his life. Now, he’s sharing his story to inspire others to listen to their bodies and take heart health seriously.

Local women recognized as heroes at Central Massachusetts Heart and Stroke Walk 

Heather Welch and Kayla Overly were honored as Heart and Stroke Heroes at the Central Massachusetts Heart and Stroke Walk for their lifesaving work in cardiac emergency readiness and stroke awareness. Their efforts are helping build a stronger, healthier community.

Massachusetts library expands role as community hub with blood pressure station

The Franklin Public Library is the first in Massachusetts to partner with the American Heart Association to offer a free blood pressure monitoring station, helping residents take charge of their health in a trusted, accessible space.

Local executive to chair 2025 Boston Heart Walk

Linda Lennox mobilizes Boston’s corporate leaders to build community of lifesavers as chair of American Heart Association Heart Walk Linda Lennox, vice president of corporate communications and chief of staff with Lantheus, will lead the charge as the 2025 American Heart Association Heart Walk chair to build a community of lifesavers in Boston. Under Lennox’s … Read more

Future innovators find inspiration at STEM Goes Red event in Worcester, Mass.

With steady hands and curious minds, dozens of high school girls from Central Massachusetts practiced CPR, explored emergency response technologies, and heard firsthand what it takes to become a woman leader in science and medicine. This was STEM Goes Red, an immersive, all-day event hosted by the American Heart Association at UMass Chan Medical School … Read more

Boston cardiologist to receive 2025 Paul Dudley White Award for pioneering work in cardiovascular genetics

The American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, is proud to announce that Dr. Christine E. Seidman, an internationally renowned physician-scientist and pioneer in cardiovascular genetics, has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Paul Dudley White Award. The award, established in 1974, is presented annually to a Boston-based medical professional … Read more

2025 Central Massachusetts Heart and Stroke Ball unites community to create a world of longer, healthier lives

The 2025 Central Massachusetts Heart and Stroke Ball, held on Saturday, March 1, brought together community leaders, volunteers, and survivors committed to saving lives from heart disease and stroke. The gala highlighted the power of research, discovery, advocacy, and health equity in transforming outcomes across Central Massachusetts. Thanks to the generosity of attendees and sponsors, … Read more

Magazine profiles Boston Woman of Impact nominee

The journey from heart attack survivor to passionate advocate is one that Tara Benoit never expected to take. But after experiencing a spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) in May 2023, the Windham, New Hampshire, mom of two has embraced a new purpose: raising awareness about women’s heart health and supporting the American Heart Association’s Go … Read more

Boston cardiologist urges South Asians to take charge of heart health in American Heart Association webinar

South Asians face a higher risk of heart disease than many other populations, but understanding the unique factors at play can help reduce that risk. That was the focus of the American Heart Association’s latest Community Conversations on South Asian Heart Health webinar, where Dr. Romit Bhattacharya, a cardiologist at Massachusetts General Hospital and medical … Read more

Central Massachusetts Heart and Stroke Ball leaders highlight heart health on Chamber Exchange TV show

With American Heart Month in full swing, Massachusetts Heart and Stroke Ball Chair Justin Precourt, president of UMass Memorial Medical Center, and American Heart Association Development Director Sabrina Webb recently joined Chamber Exchange, on Spectrum News 1, to discuss the upcoming Central Massachusetts Heart and Stroke Ball and the importance of heart health awareness. Hosted … Read more

New Hands-Only CPR kiosk at Museum of Science featured on Boston news channels

The Thursday morning unveiling of an American Heart Association Hands-Only CPR training kiosk at Boston’s Museum of Science was featured on 7News Boston, NBC Boston and NECN, with coverage airing on Thursday, February 20, and continuing into Friday, February 21. Sponsored by Johnson & Johnson MedTech, the interactive kiosk provides museum visitors with a fun … Read more

American Heart Association unveils Hands-Only CPR training kiosk at Boston’s Museum of Science

The American Heart Association unveiled a new Hands-Only CPR training kiosk at the Museum of Science on Thursday. Sponsored by Johnson & Johnson MedTech, this state-of-the-art, interactive video game-style kiosk provides visitors with a unique opportunity to learn and practice a lifesaving skill in just minutes—all to the beat of the Bee Gees’ disco classic … Read more

American Heart Association announces 2025 Heart of Gold Award recipients in Central Massachusetts 

The American Heart Association is proud to announce the 2025 recipients of the Heart of Gold Awards, which will be presented at the Central Massachusetts Heart and Stroke Ball on Saturday, March 1, at Mechanics Hall in Worcester. These awards recognize individuals and organizations that have made a profound impact on heart health, stroke prevention, … Read more

Boston YMCA and American Heart Association join forces to tackle food insecurity

On a recent Thursday, the hum of chatter and laughter filled the cafeteria at the Dorchester YMCA as about two dozen 7- and 8-year-olds filed in for a late afternoon snack. Small hands reached for soap and sanitizer at the sinks before settling at long, rectangular tables, where bananas, low-fat milk, and neatly wrapped vegetarian … Read more

WCVB Channel 5 Boston highlights CPR education in American Heart Month PSA

The American Heart Association is proud to work with WCVB Channel 5 Boston, which produced and is airing a powerful public service announcement in recognition of American Heart Month throughout February. The PSA features Jessica Brown, who co-anchors WCVB Channel 5’s 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. newscasts, and also serves as the station’s medical reporter, … Read more

Massachusetts State House joins the American Heart Association to Go Red for Women

The Massachusetts State House was a sea of red on Wednesday, Feb. 5, as lawmakers, staffers, and advocates gathered for a Go Red for Women press conference in recognition of American Heart Month and National Wear Red Day. The State House News Service covered the event, highlighting the urgency of addressing heart disease—the leading cause … Read more

Massachusetts cardiologist shares health tips with Spectrum News 1 on Wear Red Day

On National Wear Red Day, Spectrum News 1 put the spotlight on a critical issue: women’s heart health. Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death for women, yet many are unaware of the unique risk factors they may face. The American Heart Association is committed to changing that by raising awareness and empowering women … Read more

Nutrition expert advises South Asians on heart-healthy eating in Boston webinar

Nutrition plays a crucial role in preventing heart disease, and for South Asians, making the right dietary choices can be life-saving. That was the message from Dr. Supriya Rao, a leading expert in dietary strategies for cardiovascular health, who headlined the January 28 installment of Community Conversations on South Asian Heart Health, a monthly webinar … Read more

American Heart Association helps Massachusetts Boys & Girls Clubs boost safety with AEDs and CPR training

On a quiet January morning, the Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest’s Hudson Clubhouse came alive with purpose, as employees knelt beside CPR manikins, practicing skills that could one day save a life. Under the guidance of Stephanie Voltaire, community impact director for the American Heart Association in Greater Boston, they practiced chest compressions and … Read more

Boston physician honored by American Heart Association for health equity work

Dr. Tanveer Khan, director of clinical quality assurance and quality improvement at Harvard Street Neighborhood Health Center, was presented with the American Heart Association’s Live Fierce Award on Friday at a ceremony held at the Dorchester health clinic. The award honors those who, like Dr. Khan, help their communities live longer and healthier lives. Dr. Khan’s … Read more

Boston cardiologist shares strategies to combat heart disease during South Asian health webinar

Heart disease remains a significant health challenge for the South Asian community, a disparity that was at the center of Tuesday night’s Community Conversations on South Asian Heart Health, a monthly webinar hosted by the American Heart Association in Greater Boston. Dr. Pradeep Natarajan, director of preventive cardiology at Massachusetts General Hospital and a Harvard … Read more

Greater Boston webinar empowers community with life-saving CPR knowledge

In an effort to transform bystanders into lifesavers, the American Heart Association hosted a webinar on Friday, Dec. 13, spotlighting the critical importance of CPR and AEDs. The event brought together local experts and community members to address disparities in cardiac arrest survival rates and to inspire action. The webinar, locally sponsored by Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, … Read more

Greater Boston Serve Day webinar to promote CPR and AED education

The American Heart Association, celebrating 100 years of life-saving service in 2024, is collaborating with companies and community members across Greater Boston to activate Serve Day, a dedicated day of action supporting community wellness, on Friday, Dec. 13. Research shows that 61% of employees who have participated in workplace volunteer activities feel a stronger connection … Read more

Boston cardiologist Dr. Jane Newburger to be honored for mentorship legacy with Eugene Braunwald Award

Dr. Jane W. Newburger, a celebrated leader in pediatric cardiology and associate chair for academic affairs in the cardiology department at Boston Children’s Hospital, will be honored with the prestigious Eugene Braunwald Academic Mentorship Award at the American Heart Association’s upcoming Scientific Sessions. The award, named after renowned cardiologist Eugene Braunwald, celebrates Newburger’s remarkable career … Read more

Thousands unite for the annual Boston Heart Walk, raising over $1 million to save lives 

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, … Read more

Blood pressure monitor loaner program aims to tackle hypertension disparities in Boston

In an effort to make blood pressure monitoring more accessible, the American Heart Association has teamed with Brigham and Women’s Hospital to launch a blood pressure monitor loaner program at nearly a dozen health clinics across Boston. The program provides patients with blood pressure monitors to borrow for two to three weeks, allowing them to … Read more

Boston hosts first webinar on heart health in South Asian communities

South Asians face a significant health disparity when it comes to cardiovascular wellness. Despite being at higher risk for heart disease and stroke, this group is often underrepresented in studies and resources focused on cardiovascular health. This gap in representation means limited data and fewer targeted resources for a community that faces a higher risk … Read more

Local hospital executive to lead American Heart Association effort driving equitable health in Central Massachusetts

The American Heart Association announced today that Justin Precourt, a local hospital executive, will chair the 2025 Heart of Central Massachusetts campaign, which culminates in a celebration at the Heart and Stroke Ball in March. Precourt is the interim president of UMass Memorial Medical Center, an 800-bed teaching hospital that employs 7,500 caregivers across three … Read more

Boston 25 News highlights inspiring stories at 2024 Boston Heart Walk

Boston 25 News covered the 2024 Boston Heart Walk, amplifying the American Heart Association’s mission to fight heart disease and stroke in Greater Boston. Watch their report below. Held at the Boston Common, this year’s event brought together thousands to walk, share stories, and rally for heart health in Greater Boston and beyond. The day … Read more

Media Advisory: American Heart Association’s Boston Heart Walk set for Saturday, Oct. 26, on Boston Common

Opportunities for Media to Interview Local Heart Disease and Stroke Survivors with Compelling Stories WHAT: The American Heart Association’s annual Boston Heart Walk will take place on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024, on Boston Common at 10 a.m. The event brings together thousands of participants to raise awareness and funds to fight heart disease and stroke. … Read more

Boston Heart Walk chair shares personal health journey in new social media video

Boston Heart Walk Chair Scott Daley’s commitment to the American Heart Association’s mission is more than professional; it is deeply personal. A heart surgery survivor, Daley’s connection to heart health is also underscored by the loss of his uncle to a heart attack and the experience of his father, who survived a heart attack after … Read more

American Heart Association launches Boston webinar series to address South Asian heart health risks

The American Heart Association is addressing a critical gap in cardiovascular research and awareness by launching a new webinar series aimed at South Asian communities, a group often overlooked in heart disease and stroke studies despite facing elevated risks. Titled “Community Conversations on South Asian Heart Health,” the monthly series will feature discussions led by … Read more

35 Massachusetts organizations recognized for commitment to improving cardiovascular care

Thirty-five healthcare organizations across Massachusetts have been recognized by the American Heart Association for their commitment to improving heart health and preventing strokes through innovative outpatient programs. The facilities earned Gold or Gold Plus status in three American Heart Association Outpace CVD™ outpatient programs: Target: BP™, Target: Type 2 Diabetes™, and Check. Change. Control. Cholesterol™. … Read more

NBC Boston: Heart failure, AFib and coronary heart disease linked to cognitive impairment

Three common cardiovascular diseases in adults—heart failure, atrial fibrillation and coronary heart disease—are linked to cognitive impairment and increased risk of dementia, according to “Cardiac Contributions to Brain Health,” a new scientific statement from the American Heart Association published today in the Association’s journal, Stroke. Watch a report in the findings from NBC Boston: The … Read more

WCVB Channel 5’s Jennifer Peñate to emcee Boston Heart Walk, PSA airing now

WCVB Channel 5 Boston weekend evening anchor Jennifer Peñate will serve as the emcee for the 2024 Boston Heart Walk, taking place on Saturday, Oct. 26, on Boston Common. The Heart Walk, is one of the American Heart Association’s largest annual events. This year’s walk is expected to draw thousands of participants from across Greater … Read more

CBS Boston: Massachusetts 4th grader wins tickets to Super Bowl after learning Hands-Only CPR

A Franklin, Mass., elementary school student has punched his ticket to one of the biggest sporting events in the world, thanks to a nationwide American Heart Association initiative promoting lifesaving skills. Samvidh Kandula, a fourth grader at John F. Kennedy Memorial School, was recently surprised with two tickets to Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, … Read more

New AED to boost safety at Boston community center

In a move to enhance community safety, the American Heart Association has teamed with Madison Park Development Corporation to install an automatic external defibrillator (AED) at Hibernian Hall in Roxbury. The installation marks a significant step in improving emergency response capabilities in the neighborhood. The initiative, made possible through a generous donation from local philanthropists … Read more

With a Faithful Heart: American Heart Association teams with Greater Boston churches to promote cardiovascular health

Greater Boston churchgoers are getting a boost to their health thanks to a new initiative from the American Heart Association called “Have Faith in Heart.” The Association is working with local religious leaders to provide worshippers and members of the community with tools and knowledge to improve their cardiovascular health. Watch as Stephanie Voltaire, the … Read more

Massachusetts school ranked top in nation for American Heart Challenge fundraising

North Attleborough Middle School has been named the nation’s top American Heart Challenge school, raising an impressive $64,000 for the American Heart Association’s fight against cardiovascular disease. The school was one of 21 institutions and individuals nationwide recognized during a virtual awards ceremony on September 10 for their dedication to the Association’s in-school programs, the … Read more

CBS Boston: New research highlights concerning blood pressure trends in youth and young adults

Two studies have uncovered alarming trends in blood pressure among younger populations in the United States. In a segment with CBS Boston anchor David Wade, health reporter Dr. Mallika Marshall discussed these findings, underscoring the growing need for comprehensive cardiovascular health initiatives targeting youth and young adults. Watch it below: Both studies are preliminary research … Read more

Soaring temperatures, rising risks: NBC Boston reports that extreme heat threatens to double heart-related deaths by 2050

As temperatures rise, so does the risk of heart-related fatalities, experts warn. A recent report by NBC Boston highlights the deadly link between extreme heat and cardiovascular deaths, sounding alarms about a potential health crisis as climate change intensifies. “Heat causes dehydration and puts additional stress on the body, significantly impacting cardiovascular health,” Dr. Gordon … Read more

Massachusetts heart patient shares heat wave insights with WBUR

The American Heart Association’s message about the dangers of extreme heat for heart patients reached the Greater Boston audience through a recent WBUR article written by Martha Bebinger. The piece, which explored the impact of heat waves on cardiac-related deaths in Massachusetts, featured insights from one of our dedicated volunteers, Chrissy Gaffney. Gaffney, a Worcester … Read more

42 Massachusetts hospitals recognized for efforts to improve heart disease and stroke outcomes

In a significant push to combat the nation’s leading causes of death, 42 Massachusetts hospitals have joined an American Heart Association initiative to improve outcomes for patients with heart disease and stroke. These hospitals are part of a group of more than 3,000 hospitals nationwide participating in the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® … Read more

Massachusetts advocates rally on Capitol Hill for cardiac emergency preparedness in schools

Washington, D.C. witnessed a powerful display of grassroots advocacy recently as over 200 American Heart Association supporters converged on Capitol Hill. Their mission? To champion federal policies ensuring schools are ready to respond to cardiac emergencies. This “Hearts on the Hill” event, organized by American Heart Association’s You’re the Cure network on May 22-23, aligns … Read more

22News offers heart safety warnings during Massachusetts heat wave

It’s only the first days of summer and record high temperatures are already being reported across much of the U.S. That’s prompted the American Heart Association to issue important warnings about taking extra precautions to stay safe in extremely high temperatures. Watch this report from 22News about hot weather precautions you can follow to stay … Read more

Massachusetts news channel offers tips for a heart-healthy BBQ

The smells of summer have returned: sunscreen, freshly cut grass and burgers sizzling on the grill. For many families, backyard barbecues are a staple of summer dining. But often the foods people associate with summer grilling – including ribs, sausages, hot dogs and hamburgers – are processed or high in saturated fat and sodium, which … Read more

Greater Boston leaders and companies celebrate a century of bold hearts and bold commitments with the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association Founders Day celebrates 100 years of success fighting heart disease and stroke; heart disease deaths cut in half since founding BOSTON, June 13, 2024 — Since the American Heart Association was founded in 1924, deaths in the United States from cardiovascular disease have been cut in half. June 10 commemorates the … Read more

American Heart Association marks 100 years, pushes for CPR training at Massachusetts State House

In a poignant blend of celebration and advocacy, the American Heart Association marked its centennial anniversary on Wednesday at the Massachusetts State House, coinciding with CPR and AED Awareness Week. The event underscored the organization’s mission to teach as many people as possible how to perform CPR and use an automated external defibrillator (AED). Local … Read more

Boston News Channels: Heart disease and stroke could affect at least 60% of adults in U.S. by 2050

At least 6 in 10 adults in an older, more diverse U.S. population could be affected by cardiovascular disease within the next 30 years, according to two new science reports. The projected rise in heart disease and stroke – along with several key risk factors, including high blood pressure and obesity – is likely to … Read more

Massachusetts heart disease survivor shares story on XLO Morning Show

Chrissy Gaffney, a heart disease survivor and American Heart Association volunteer, appeared on the XLO Morning Show with Jen Carter and Frank Foley today to discuss her personal journey and promote the upcoming 2024 Central Massachusetts Heart and Stroke Walk. Listen to the full interview here: Gaffney, who grew up in Westborough and now resides … Read more

American Heart Association teams with Boston WIC clinics for blood pressure screenings for pregnant and postpartum women

The American Heart Association is working to improve the health of pregnant and postpartum women in Boston by offering free blood pressure screenings, health referrals, and educational materials at local WIC clinics. This initiative, known as WIC With Heart, is a collaborative effort aimed at addressing high blood pressure, a critical health issue that disproportionately … Read more

Worcester talk show spotlights Central Massachusetts Heart and Stroke Walk

Tim Murray, host of Chamber Exchange, invited the American Heart Association to talk about the Central Massachusetts Heart and Stroke Walk and the organization’s 100th birthday this week. Joining Murray on the show was Sabrina Webb, development director for the American Heart Association in Central Massachusetts, and Jay Cyr, the chair of the Heart and … Read more

Boston Globe: Off-duty firefighters save man in cardiac arrest during hockey game in Pembroke

Off-duty firefighters saved a man’s life during a hockey game in Pembroke recently, according to the Boston Globe. The incident occurred on May 19, when the man, who was playing in the game, suddenly went into cardiac arrest. The off-duty firefighters, who were also participating in the hockey game, immediately sprang into action. They administered … Read more

Massachusetts heart health initiatives spotlighted on 22News during American Heart Month

In a special segment aired during American Heart Month, Allyson Perron Drag, the government relations lead for the American Heart Association in Massachusetts, appeared on 22News. Interviewed by evening anchor Nick Aresco, Perron Drag emphasized the significance of ongoing legislative efforts in Massachusetts aimed at improving cardiovascular health. Perron Drag also addressed the unique challenges … Read more