Greater Washington Region

Meet Shelbe Hudson: two-time stroke survivor, DJ and advocate

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When Shelbe Hudson had her first stroke at the age of 25, it was the last thing she expected to happen to her. Her initial symptoms were headaches and changes in vision, which she largely dismissed as effects of her job and too much screentime.  As the symptoms persisted, she waited. She celebrated the Fourth of July with her … Read more

Meet Tony Brown, a heart warrior who beat all odds

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When Tita Escobar was five months pregnant, doctors broke the kind of news no expecting parent wants to hear; her baby would be born with a heart condition and might not survive past birth. After a high-risk pregnancy, baby Tony arrived into the world. Tita had mere seconds to hold him before Tony was quickly rushed into the intensive care … Read more

American Heart Association, Montgomery County clinic team up to offer new tools for supporting heart health

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A collaboration between the American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region and Mansfield Kaseman Health Clinic, has led to a dramatic improvement in health for clients of the clinic. In particular, more than half of the patients seen during the collaboration saw an improvement in their blood pressure readings. This is important because high blood pressure … Read more

After overcoming a major heart event, ultramarathoner Michael Lo Presti has an important message

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Decades ago, when Michael Lo Presti first began his running career, he started seeing the usual positive results that come with this healthy habit… but one troubling symptom persisted. His blood pressure was consistently measuring high. It turned out he was living with an undiagnosed congenital heart defect. A heart ultrasound revealed the cause of the … Read more

Fox Chapel Elementary School Becomes first school in Montgomery County to implement a community blood pressure screening station

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Hypertension remains a significant public health concern, mostly because it often goes unnoticed until serious health threats occur, such as heart attacks or stroke.   The American Heart Association works with community organizations to manage and prevent hypertension by implementing blood pressure screening stations at places where clients already receive other health services. To expand this initiative, we are partnering with schools in the Greater Washington Region.   Fox Chapel Elementary … Read more

Brian Drouin’s lifelong heart journey led him back to the American Heart Association

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When Brian Drouin joined the American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region team in March 2026 to lead the Lawyers Have Heart event, it marked a full-circle moment in his heart journey.  Brian was born with d-Transposition of the Great Arteries; as a newborn, he had an arterial switch operation, the first step in a lifelong journey … Read more

Laura Smith and Tim Brightbill return as co-chairs for 36th annual Lawyers Have Heart

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two headshots with the lawyers have heart logo

The longtime event volunteers return for the second year as co-chairs, where they will unite the DC-area legal community to power the annual 10K, 5K and Fun Walk  Laura Smith, partner at HKA, and Tim Brightbill, partner at Wiley, will return as co-chairs for the 36th annual Lawyers Have Heart, an annual 10K, 5K and Fun Walk that brings together thousands of runners and walkers … Read more

Two Greater Washington Region locals named Go Red for Women national ambassadors

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a group of women wearing red

WASHINGTON, D.C., February 1, 2026 – Cardiovascular disease remains the No. 1 killer of women and new moms, with more than 45% of adult women living with some form of heart disease. Women remain underrepresented in clinical research trials.  Twelve women from across the country have been selected to represent the American Heart Association’s nationwide Go Red for Women movement in 2026. Among them are Erin Adelekun, an … Read more

After surviving a stroke at 18, Lauren Treacy set a goal to run a marathon

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people at a race

As a college freshman in 2020, Lauren Treacy was getting her first taste of independence. She was home for the holidays after her first semester at Penn State where she met some of her closest friends, took her initial courses toward her degree, went running every day and was gearing up to rush a sorority. December 29, 2020, started as a normal day. Lauren and some friends … Read more

Lace up your sneakers and join us for National Walking Day 2026!

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a group of people with a WALK sign in front

American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region and Sheehy Auto Stores invite you to George Mason University for a day of fitness and fun  National Walking Day returns on April 1, 2026, with celebrations across the country around this simple act to improve physical and mental health. In the Greater Washington Region, supporters are invited to join the … Read more

After undergoing a triple bypass surgery, Richard Martin has an important message for other men: pay attention to your heart

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a woman, man and dog on stage

Richard Martin walked in the 2024 Greater Washington Region Heart Walk to get out in the community and join his wife and her colleagues at VHC Health in supporting an important cause. When he returned in 2025, the mission behind the event was much more personal. Richard is a father of four, a grandfather, a golfer and a decades-long sales and marketing professional from Northern Virginia. In recent years, there had been early rumblings that something might … Read more

American Heart Association helps Cannon Road Elementary become the first Montgomery County Public School to establish a Healthy Pantry Policy

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canned foods on a shelf

For many families, access to healthy food is not just about preference. It is about availability, affordability and awareness. When nutritious options are easier to find and understand, families are better equipped to make choices that support long-term health. That belief is at the heart of the work led by the American Heart Association and recently took … Read more

National Walking Day kicked off Move More Month in the DMV and beyond

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two women posing in front of National Walking Day banner

The American Heart Association and Sheehy Auto Stores hosted a National Walking Day event at George Mason University, convening guests from across the region for a day of fitness, learning and fun.  Participants warmed up and stretched with trainers from George Mason University, practiced yoga and tabata with instructors from The St. James, learned CPR from the American Heart Association, mixed up a healthy snack with nutritionists … Read more

Four generations of women’s stories converge around heart health

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This year, when Stacy Yentz of Peraton joined her team for the Heart Walk, the mission behind the event was more personal to her than she could have ever imagined. Last November, Stacy’s mother, Gerri, was diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation (AFib). What initially seemed like a manageable diagnosis escalated quickly. Just two weeks later, Gerri … Read more

This giving season, support healthy pantries in your community

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Guidance for DC-area neighbors on how to make healthy food donations and where to start  Nearly half of all Greater Washington Region residents lack access to healthy food. Poor nutrition leads to poor heart outcomes. People without enough food may often be faced with unhealthy choices of high-calorie, low-nutrient foods, which can lead to chronic … Read more

Heartfelt supporters cross the $2.1 million finish line for the Greater Washington Region Heart Walk

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Thousands of walkers returned to D.C.’s National Mall for the 2025 Heart Walk WASHINGTON, D.C., Nov 17, 2025 – Around 10,000 walkers gathered on the National Mall for the 2025 Greater Washington Region Heart Walk, raising more than $2.1 million for the fight against heart disease and stroke. These 579 teams, 90 companies and thousands … Read more

New members join initiative championing health in schools across the Northeast

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Superintendents across the Northeast region are working with the American Heart Association to improve the health and well-being of students, families and educators. Nineteen superintendents were selected to serve as volunteer leaders for the second year of the Association’s Eastern States Superintendent Council. In its second year, the Superintendent Council has new leadership. Mark Laurrie, … Read more

29 local clinics awarded for high standard of blood pressure care   

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These health centers are recognized for their efforts to improve community blood pressure with the goal of ultimately reducing heart attack and stroke rates  Twenty-nine clinics located in the Greater Washington Region have been recognized for their unwavering commitment to achieving better blood pressure control in their communities, with the ultimate goal of reducing the … Read more

Meet Jeff “Coldstream” Roth: runner, survivor, local executive – and recovery myth buster 

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At a May 2019 ceremony, Jeff had a chance to thank the first responders who saved his life

Seven years ago, local executive Jeff Roth survived a near-death experience during a workday run. In the days after, he and his family pieced together what happened. In the years since, he’s been rewriting the story of what recovery really looks like.  Jeff, now director of games at Booz Allen Hamilton, was on a routine … Read more

Commanders players urge fans to join Nation of Lifesavers, learn lifesaving CPR

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The American Heart Association and NFL team up to boost CPR readiness on World Restart a Heart Day WASHINGTON, DC, October 16, 2025 —To boost awareness of CPR, the American Heart Association and NFL (National Football League) are unveiling the 2025 Nation of Lifesavers™ Player Ambassador Class on World Restart a Heart Day, which takes … Read more

Veteran and CEO leads year-round campaign to save and improve lives

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Eduardo Ortiz named chairperson of 2026 Heart of Greater Washington campaign The American Heart Association has announced that Eduardo Ortiz, CEO of Coforma, will serve as chairperson of the 2026 Heart of Greater Washington campaign. This initiative propels the relentless pursuit of scientific discovery, public policy change, equitable health for the under-resourced and underrepresented and … Read more

October 16, 2025 declared “Restart a Heart Day” in Washington, D.C. 

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Mayor Muriel Bowser has proclaimed October 16, 2025, as “World Restart a Heart Day” in the District of Columbia.   More than 350,000 cardiac arrests occur annually in the United States, with up to 23,000 of those happening to people under 18 years old. In D.C. alone, nearly 1,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of a hospital … Read more

Greater Washington Golf Tournament makes big swings for heart health 

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Over 100 golfers from more than 20 local companies convened for a day of golf and lifesaving impact  ROCKVILLE, Md., Sept. 22, 2025 – The American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region hosted its 40th annual Golf Tournament benefitting the Association’s mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. This year’s … Read more

Healthcare Initiative Foundation rounds out one year of supporting blood pressure screening in Montgomery County, Md.

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In 2024, The Healthcare Initiative Foundation (HIF) awarded the American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region, a one-year grant to support the health of Montgomery County residents. The initiative empowers residents to monitor their blood pressure at home and at various community sites.   To bring this vision to life, the Heart Association collaborated with community … Read more

Tobacco-free communities, healthy meals and access to care: our 2025-2026 advocacy agenda

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The American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region continues to support policies that improve the heart health and safety of our neighbors. In the last year, D.C. passed legislation requiring cardiac emergency response plans in all schools. Starting in September 2025, all schools will be prepared to save lives and respond to cardiac emergencies in school … Read more

September is Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Month: Here’s what you should know

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Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common irregular heartbeat, affecting millions of people, the majority of whom are not aware of the condition until they’re diagnosed. It can increase your risk of stroke by up to five times and can increase your risk of other complications.   While anyone can develop AFib, the risk rises with … Read more

Advancing equitable health across the Greater Washington Region

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Prince George’s County Washington, D.C. Montgomery County Northern Virginia The American Heart Association is deepening its commitment to equitable health throughout the Greater Washington Region (GWR) by expanding efforts to combat chronic disease. Our work focuses on addressing nutrition security, improving blood pressure control and increasing access to lifesaving Hands-Only CPR education. Through strong collaboration … Read more

Michael Kirshbaum returns as chair for 40th annual Greater Washington Region Golf Tournament

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The American Heart Association celebrates Michael Kirshbaum returning for the second year as chair of the 40th annual Greater Washington Region Golf Tournament, happening on September 22, 2025. Kirshbaum serves as the chief financial officer of EAB, an education research, technology, and services company and previously served as CFO of The Advisory Board Company, a … Read more

25 hospitals in the Greater Washington Region recognized for efforts to improve outcomes for Americans with heart disease and stroke

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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  WASHINGTON, 2025 — Twenty-five hospitals in the Greater Washington Region 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 … Read more

Why every organization needs a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan 

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When sudden cardiac arrest strikes, every second counts. Yet, only about 40% of people who experience an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest receive the immediate help they need before professional responders arrive. The survival rate drops by 10% every minute without CPR or use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). That’s why the American Heart Association is … Read more

American Heart Association Greater Washington Region Announces New Board Chair and Welcomes New Directors

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The American Heart Association, a global force for longer, healthier lives, proudly announces new leadership and appointments to its Greater Washington Region (GWR) Board of Directors for the 2025–2026 fiscal year. Made up of volunteer leaders, the Board supports the mission of the Association through fundraising and addresses important community priorities, including increasing access to … Read more

Seven-year-old Kayleigh Williams has the heart of a fighter

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Stafford County, VA seven-year-old Kayleigh Williams has a resilient heart: one that’s survived complications, surgeries, diseases and other big challenges with a fighting spirit. Before she was born, her mother, Carine, learned at her 20-week ultrasound that Kayleigh had hypoplastic right heart syndrome. At the time, the family was based in Jacksonville, NC, where Kayleigh’s … Read more

Eastern States Rural Health Summit 2025: Bridging gaps and building futures 

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The American Heart Association (AHA) held the inaugural  Eastern States Rural Health Summit on June 13, 2025. Rural populations make up about 20% of the U.S. population, totaling approximately 60 million people. These communities are diverse but share common challenges in health access and outcomes. The summit served as a platform to elevate the unique health needs … Read more

Meet the DC-area food pantries committed to improving community heart health 

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The American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region (AHA GWR) is proud to support six local food assistance providers expand their services and better elevate the total wellbeing of the communities they serve. With generous support from Coforma, we’re helping ensure that families not only receive nutritious meals, but also gain access to resources that support … Read more

2025 CPR & AED rally unites hearts in DC 

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(L) Survivors and advocates stand in front of the Capitol with their march signs, (middle) Survivor Dr. Delya Sommerville was one of the advocates participating in the rally, (R) Survivors and advocates march from the Washington Monument to the U.S. Capitol  From June 5 to 7, 2025, heart health advocates from across the country gathered … Read more

On CPR week, let these stories inspire you to learn a lifesaving skill

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Cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, anywhere. Each year, more than 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of the hospital in the United States. 9 out of 10 of those who experience cardiac arrest do not survive. The good news is that when bystander CPR is performed, it can double or even triple survival rates.  That’s … Read more

35th annual Lawyers Have Heart convenes thousands of runners and walkers to advance health and hope

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On May 17, 2025, more than 4,000 runners, walkers and supporters – among them survivors, fitness leaders, members of the legal community and public health leaders – convened for the 35th Lawyers Have Heart at the scenic West Potomac Park. After completing the 5k, 10k and fun walk course, runners, walkers and families enjoyed a … Read more

Let’s Walk: Rocky Thurston of DMI chairs the Greater Washington Region Heart Walk Campaign alongside a team of volunteer leaders

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Rocky Thurston, CEO of DMI, a global technology consulting and professional services firm, has been named chair of the 2025 Greater Washington Region Heart Walk. The event, scheduled for November 1 at the National Mall, brings together a community of hundreds of local companies as well as survivors, health leaders, donors, advocates and volunteers to … Read more

Meet Aubrey and Kennedy: Bristow elementary schoolers and “Open Your Heart” heroes

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For survivors and Youth Heart Ambassadors, Aubrey Spiess and Kennedy Shivers of Bristow Run Elementary, knowing they have someone at the same school who understands their experience makes a big difference. Second grader Aubrey was born with coarctation of aorta, mitral valve stenosis, and a severely large ventricular septal defect (a hole in her heart), … Read more

Greater Washington Region Heart Ball carries the torch into the second century of impact

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On April 5, 2025, hundreds of supporters of the American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region (AHA GWR) gathered in the ballroom of the Waldorf Astoria to celebrate the work of the AHA and share stories of lives transformed by advancements in cardiac care. The annual gala raised $1.3 million to advance the AHA’s lifesaving mission.  … Read more

After a series of shocking heart events, local fitness leader sets sights on new athletic achievement

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As a personal trainer and multisport athlete in his thirties, Andres Virgen may not fit your typical profile of a cardiovascular disease patient. But when he was diagnosed with a bicuspid aortic valve at the age of 30, some things started to add up. This congenital heart defect went unnoticed until then, but the signs … Read more

Maryland healthcare center expands hypertension and chronic disease treatment with AHA support

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Huixing (Kate) Lu, clinic director In Montgomery County, Maryland, there are significant gaps in healthcare access that we at the Chinese Cultural and Community Service Center Clinic (CCACC) are working to address. CCACC Health Center is a subsidiary unit of CCACC, and is an education, culture and healthcare center offering primary care, rehabilitation, mental health … Read more

Join Us at the Inaugural Rural Health Summit!

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dirt road in rural america

Imagine living in a town without a doctor or being 200 miles away from the nearest hospital. For one in five people in the U.S., including 5.7 million residents of rural communities throughout the Eastern States, this is a reality. Rural areas face significant health care challenges. On average, people in these communities live almost … Read more

National Walking Day in the Greater Washington Region brings fitness, fun and learning

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On April 2, 2025, crowds gathered at the St. James in Springfield, VA for a morning of fitness, learning and fun in celebration of National Walking Day, locally sponsored by Sheehy Auto Stores. For decades, the American Heart Association (AHA) has championed the importance of physical activity in communities across the country. That’s why we … Read more

National Walking Day 2025: Walk more. Stress less.

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A walk isn’t just good for your body—it’s a simple, powerful way to care for your mind and soul. Physical activity, like walking, reduces stress, boosts mood, and promotes overall well-being. For decades, the American Heart Association has championed the importance of physical activity in communities across the country. That’s why we created National Walking … Read more

Coforma grant fuels local nutrition security efforts, advances Heart of Greater Washington campaign

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The American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region (AHA GWR) is kicking off a collaboration with Coforma, a digital services company based in Washington, DC, to advance key local health initiatives: healthy pantries and the Heart of Greater Washington campaign. “Coforma is thrilled to support the American Heart Association’s efforts to advance community health and increase … Read more

Meet Olivia Pacheco: Miss Teen Apple Blossom, dancer, student leader and congenital heart defect survivor

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For Prince William County high school senior, Olivia Pacheco, her volunteerism as a Youth Heart Ambassador for the American Heart Association (AHA) is personal; she has survived two congenital heart defects and four open heart surgeries before the age of 17. Olivia was born with truncus arteriosus and coarctation of the aorta. “When I was … Read more

DC and Maryland chosen for new effort to improve diagnosis, treatment of CKM syndrome

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An American Heart Association initiative aims to improve care for people with a cluster of conditions called cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic syndrome Washington, DC, Feb. 18, 2025 — DC and Maryland are among the first five geographic regions in the U.S. that will implement a new initiative to improve care for people with a cluster of chronic conditions … Read more

Meet our 2025 Teens of Impact for the Greater Washington Region

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Every year across the country, a select group of teens are nominated to be a part of Teen of Impact because of their passion and drive to make a difference. This nine-week competition is relentlessly focused on heart health. Through April 10, 2025, nominees work to build campaign plans, recruit Impact teams, and inspire their … Read more

Meet the 2025 Greater Washington Region Woman of Impact nominees

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Every year across the country, a select group of individuals are nominated to be a part of Woman of Impact because of their passion and drive to make a difference. This nine-week competition is relentlessly focused on women’s heart health. Through April 10, 2025, nominees work to build campaign plans, recruit Impact teams, and inspire their networks to support … Read more

Television personality and America’s sweetheart, Joan Vassos, shares why the mission to save and improve lives is close to her heart

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Joan Vassos’s heart journey began with the birth of her first daughter, Erica on May 2, 1991. Soon after birth, Joan received the news that her baby was born with a congenital heart defect known as Tetralogy of Fallot. At just four and a half months old, her daughter faced open-heart surgery and an uncertain … Read more

Celebrating Our 2024 Eastern States Region Volunteer Award Winners

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The American Heart Association (AHA) Eastern States Region celebrates five outstanding 2024 Volunteer Award Winners. These awards honor individuals and companies for their unwavering commitment and dedication to our cause. This year, the Greater Washington Region is thrilled to celebrate five outstanding awardees. “We are thrilled to honor these outstanding volunteers and organizations,” said Amry … Read more

Healthcare Initiative Foundation grant empowers Montgomery County residents

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Dr. Anna Maria Izquierdo-Porrera from Care for Your Health receiving blood pressure monitors

The American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region (AHA GWR) Community Impact Team was the recipient of a one-year grant from the Healthcare Initiative Foundation (HIF) to help improve the health of Montgomery County, MD residents with high blood pressure. HIF offers funding to nonprofits in the county to improve high-quality and accessible health initiatives.   High … Read more

Heart of Greater Washington campaign leadership update

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The American Heart Association (AHA), Greater Washington Region has named Srini Attili, executive vice president, Civilian Business Group at SAIC, as chair of the 2025 Heart of Greater Washington campaign. Culminating with the Heart Ball celebration on April 5, 2025, the year-round campaign unites individuals and companies across the DC metro area to raise lifesaving … Read more

Safe schools, healthy hearts: our 2024-2025 advocacy agenda 

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The Greater Washington Region has always been a leader in advancing heart health policies, including tobacco control, reducing food insecurity and making schools and communities more prepared for cardiac emergencies.  However, many health inequities remain. In the Greater Washington Region, 29.5% of adults have hypertension, 1 in 5 high school students use electronic cigarettes and … Read more

Thousands gathered at the heart of the Nation’s Capital for a special centennial Heart Walk

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On November 2, 2024, among DC’s national monuments, thousands of survivors, business leaders, medical professionals and other supporters took steps to save lives and celebrate this iconic annual event. Representing more than 500 teams, 84 companies and around 10,000 walkers, Heart Walk supporters raised $2 million to advance CPR education, research and scientific innovation, and … Read more

Greater Washington Region October Update with Heart

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Kaiser Permanente poses for a photo at the Heart Walk.

Dear Supporters & Volunteers, I’m thrilled to share that the DC Council unanimously passed the CPR Act. With support from survivors, physicians, the NFL, students and other advocates, this legislation will ensure that DC schools have cardiac emergency response plans. I want to thank all our advocates, including Board President, Dr. Ameya Kulkarni, Leader of … Read more

35 organizations in the Greater Washington Region recognized for commitment to improve cardiovascular care

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The American Heart Association presents outpatient program achievement awards for proven dedication to ensuring patients have access to best practices that reduce risk of heart disease, stroke Nearly half of all adults in the U.S. have some form of cardiovascular disease, including heart attack, stroke or heart failure. High cholesterol, Type 2 diabetes and uncontrolled … Read more

Local public safety, business and health leaders join Leaders of Impact campaign in the Greater Washington Region

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Each year, the American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region (AHA GWR) convenes a group of dedicated philanthropic leaders who are passionate about improving the health of our community. These leaders—survivors, allies, advocates, and more—share our vision for a future of longer, healthier lives.  Through the Leaders of Impact campaign, AHA GWR and other local AHA … Read more

CPR Act approved by Council, requiring cardiac emergency response plans in DC schools

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Washington, DC, October 15, 2024 – The DC Council today unanimously passed legislation requiring DC schools to have cardiac emergency response plans. The Cardiac Planning and Response (CPR) Act requires all D.C. schools to have cardiac emergency response plans so they are prepared to respond to a cardiac arrest in a school building or athletic … Read more

Advancing community health through improved blood pressure care: a lookback at the results from our collaboration with local clinics and food pantries

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Backed by a one-year grant from Adventist Healthcare, the American Heart Association (AHA) Greater Washington Region recently concluded an initiative to better serve under-resourced residents. Through this grant, the AHA team supported community and health care organizations by providing blood pressure monitors, educational materials and training on how to measure blood pressure accurately to establish … Read more

Collaboration with UnitedHealth Group reduces barriers for patients with hypertension

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Through collaborations with health care organizations, uninsured Montgomery County residents received quality hypertension and nutrition care In Montgomery County, Maryland, high blood pressure and nutrition insecurity are health crises disproportionately facing under-resourced residents. The American Heart Association Greater Washington Region (AHA GWR), with support from a two-year “Empowering Health Care” grant UnitedHealth Group, worked alongside … Read more

American Heart Association Announces Changes to the Greater Washington Region Board of Directors

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — The American Heart Association (AHA), celebrating a century of profound impact on heart health and well-being, has announced new leadership and changes to its Greater Washington Region (GWR) Board of Directors. Ameya Kulkarni, M.D., FSCAI, associate medical director at Kaiser Permanente, will serve a two-year term as president of the GWR Board … Read more

25 hospitals across the Greater Washington Region recognized for efforts to improve outcomes for Americans with heart disease and stroke

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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 Arlington, VA, July 18, 2024 — 25 hospitals across the Greater Washington Region (GWR) are among the more than 3,000 nationwide that participate in the American Heart Association’s (AHA) Get With The Guidelines® … Read more

True Ground Housing Partners commits to resident health and nutrition

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By Danielle Johnson, Eastern States Region Note: This article has been updated to reflect True Ground Housing Partners’ new name (formerly known as Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing) True Ground Housing Partners, formerly known as Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing, is a nonprofit based in Washington, DC, that provides safe, affordable homes for more than … Read more

Owen Billman to Chair the Greater Washington Region Heart Walk 

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Local business leaders Owen Billman and Jeff Bosick will team up to drive donations, registrations and awareness about the Heart Walk and the American Heart Association  Owen Billman, president of Blake Real Estate and past leadership development chair for the American Heart Association (AHA) Greater Washington Region Board of Directors, has been named chair of … Read more

Michael Kirshbaum to chair the 39th annual Greater Washington Region Golf Tournament

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Michael Kirshbaum, Chief Financial Officer of EAB

The American Heart Association (AHA), the world’s leading nonprofit organization committed to advancing heart and brain health for all, welcomes Michael Kirshbaum as chair of the 39th annual Greater Washington Region Golf Tournament.  Kirshbaum is the Chief Financial Officer of EAB, an education research, technology, and services company and previously served as CFO of The … Read more

A near-fatal wakeup call disrupts an annual tradition: Jonah’s survivor story

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An annual trip with friends marked by laughter, hunting, and decadent eating took a turn when Jonah Czerwinski, Head of Public Sector at Thoughtworks, faced an unexpected and life-threatening ordeal. Jonah highlights the importance of understanding detection and prevention and rethinking the outdated perceptions of heart disease risk factors. Jonah was in Perry County, Alabama … Read more

“I had a brother once” – Barbara Bassin’s survivor story

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Barbara (right) with her brother, Bruce and sister, Gail (left)

Barbara Bassin, 71, recounts her family’s history of heart disease. She highlights the importance of health advocacy, helping others understand and empathize with those affected by similar conditions.   25 years ago, Barbara Bassin’s brother, Bruce Bassin, collapsed and died from a heart attack while waiting in line at the Dulles Airport. Bruce was a husband, … Read more

Thousands of runners and walkers come together to raise more than $1.3 million

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9-year-old survivor, Brady Petrauskas takes the stage with his family

Lawyers Have Heart 2024 brought together 4,500 runners and raised $1.3 million for the American Heart Association’s lifesaving mission. On May 18, 2024, runners, walkers and survivors convened for the 34th annual Lawyers Have Heart, returning for the second year at the scenic West Potomac Park. After completing the 5k, 10k and fun walk course, … Read more

A sudden heart attack turned this mother of three into a vocal advocate

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When Priti Langer suffered from a spontaneous coronary artery dissection, she had to be a strong advocate for her own health; now she speaks out about the need for better awareness and treatment At around 3:00 a.m. in the morning on October 8, 2023, Priti Langer was awakened by heavy chest pains. Priti, Global Practice … Read more

Scientists in Missouri, Virginia receive pediatric heart transplantation research grants

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American Heart Association and Enduring Hearts award nearly $3 million in grants in the latest round of funding for pioneering research in heart transplants for children DALLAS, April 22, 2024 — Scientific researchers in Missouri and Virginia have been awarded nearly $1.4 million each in grants to study ways to extend the life expectancy and … Read more

National Walking Day is just the start of the #MoveMoreDC challenge

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On April 3, 2024, with support from Sheehy Auto Stores, the American Heart Association Greater Washington Region celebrated National Walking Day through a #MoveMoreDC virtual challenge. Community members shared their photos and step counts on social media using #MoveMoreDC and staff from across Sheehy Auto Stores locations participated in a step challenge tracking their steps with … Read more

Meet our Teen Champions: Leading the Way to a Healthier Future

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As the American Heart Association celebrates a century of groundbreaking advancements in cardiovascular health, we cannot help but wonder, what will the next hundred years bring? Each year across the country, the Teen of Impact campaign empowers a new generation of changemakers, driven by a desire to make a difference not only in their own … Read more

Ten Local Women Lead Effort to Fight No. 1 Killer – Heart Disease

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For 100 years, the American Heart Association has made bold moves to save lives and pioneer scientific discoveries. We haven’t done it alone. Every year across the country, a select group of individuals are nominated to be a part of Women of Impact because of their passion and dedication to effecting change in their communities. … Read more

Uniting Hearts, Transforming Lives and Raising Funds: Eight Greater Washington Region Leaders of Impact Have a Record-Breaking Campaign

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Every year across the country, a select group of individuals are nominated to be a part of the American Heart Association’s Leaders of Impact campaign because of their passion and drive to make a difference. This year’s results were exceptional, thanks to an incredible group of eight changemakers. They passionately promoted the Association’s mission, advocated for … Read more

Five Volunteers Recognized for Outstanding Contributions that Save and Improve Lives

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The American Heart Association recently announced the recipients of this year’s Eastern States Region Volunteer Awards. Five outstanding Greater Washington Region volunteer leaders were honored because of their commitment to the cause and extraordinary collaborative achievement to advance the organization’s mission to improve health and wellbeing for all. David Jaffe, Association Dean of Students, American … Read more

Greater Washington Region Public Policy Agenda Strives Toward Equitable Health for All

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Doctor forming a heart with their hands.

For nearly 100 years, the American Heart Association has been fighting heart disease and stroke by pioneering scientific discovery, community impact and public policies that help our families and communities thrive. Over 50 million people in the United States face a higher risk of heart disease because they lack access to the most basic needs, … Read more

Three Howard University students receive national health education scholarship

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2023-2024 EmPOWERED Scholars

The American Heart Association’s EmPOWERED Scholars program has awarded $5,000 to three Howard University students in Washington, DC. November 21, 2023, WASHINGTON, DC – The American Heart Association, a global force for longer, healthier lives for all, has awarded ten $5,000 scholarships to college students from across the United States through its EmPOWERED Scholars program. … Read more

Greater Washington Region Heart Walk raises heartbeats and more than $1.8 million

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Cynthia Cifuentes, Dr. Ameya Kulkarni and Owen Billman stand on stage.

On November 4, a perfect fall morning in the Nation’s Capital, 10,000 survivors, advocates, community leaders and heart health champions laced up their sneakers and stepped out against cardiovascular disease and stroke at the American Heart Association’s Greater Washington Region Heart Walk. Representing over 100 companies and 570 teams, walkers took strides and raised over … Read more

Local social entrepreneur addressing health disparities receives national grant

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Shavini Fernando - OxiWear - $12,000 Grant Recipient

Social entrepreneurs are recognized nationally for their innovative local business solutions addressing health inequities ARLINGTON, VA, NOVEMBER 15, 2023 – Approximately 50 million people in the United States are at higher risk for heart disease and/or stroke because they lack the most basic needs — healthy food, clean air and drinking water, quality education, employment, … Read more

Kaiser Permanente’s Cynthia Cifuentes and Ameya Kulkarni, M.D. are looking forward to leading the 2023 Greater Washington Region Heart Walk

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Heart Walk Chairs Dr. Ameya Kulkarni, Cynthia Cifuentes, Executive Director Soula Antoniou, Dr. Kelly Epps-Anderson and Owen Billman

For nearly a century, the American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization committed to fighting heart disease and stroke, has worked toward a world where all people have the chance for a longer, healthier life. Leading the charge to save and improve lives as our 2023 Heart Challenge Co-Chairs are Cynthia Cifuentes, Vice President … Read more

Eight local changemakers accept nominations to be Leaders of Impact in the Greater Washington Region

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For nearly 100 years, the American Heart Association has made bold moves to save lives and pioneer scientific discoveries. We haven’t done it alone. Every year across the country, a select group of individuals are nominated to be a part of Leaders of Impact because of their passion and drive to make a difference. All … Read more

Loudoun County Public Schools superintendent leads national initiative to champion health in schools

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Kids Heart Challenge logo

Dr. Aaron Spence supports critical work to improve student well-being through the American Heart Association Superintendent Council.  Aaron Spence, Ph.D., superintendent of Loudoun County Public Schools is working with the American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, and nine other superintendents from across the country to improve the health and well-being … Read more

Making an Impact in the Greater Washington Region

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For nearly 100 years, the American Heart Association has pioneered scientific advancement, policy change and community impact that gives people everywhere the opportunity for a longer, healthier life. As the leading funder of heart and stroke research, the Association has invested over $5 billion toward lifesaving science. That’s more than any U.S. organization except the … Read more

26 hospitals in the Greater Washington Region recognized for efforts to improve outcomes for Americans with heart disease and stroke

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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. Twenty-six hospitals in the Greater Washington Region are among the 2,600 nationwide that participate in the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® initiative to improve outcomes for Americans who experience heart disease … Read more

After surviving a heart attack, Donnese made it her mission to run another 5k

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Donnese Tyler running the Lawyers Have Heart 5k in Washington, DC.

October 5, 2022 was a typical day for Donnese Tyler – packed with business appointments, personal obligations and the Mother’s Club meeting at her sons’ high school. Little did she know that night her life would change forever. At the end of the meeting, Donnese felt pressure and pain in her chest and suddenly became … Read more

Four Howard University Students Named as 2022-23 EmPOWERED Scholars

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Headshots of the 4 EmPOWERED Scholars from Howard University

At the American Heart Association, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity for a longer, healthier life. For nearly 100 years, it’s been our mission to fulfill that vision and pave the way for future innovation and bold action that saves lives. Our EmPOWERED Scholars Program seeks to do just that – uplifting the ideas and … Read more

Empowering Hearts, Inspiring Change: Welcoming New Board Members and Honoring Departing Champions at the American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region

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The American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region, thrives on the dedication and passion of its volunteers who tirelessly drive the organization’s mission in communities across the region. “In this spirit of gratitude and progress, on behalf of the Association, we would like to express heartfelt appreciation to all of the members of the Board of … Read more

Heart of Greater Washington Serve Day Educates Thousands in Hands-Only CPR

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Written by Matthew Wiechmann, Health Strategies Intern More than 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCA) occur each year, and about 90% of people who experience an OHCA do not survive. Early CPR can more than double someone’s chance at life, but less than half of those in need of CPR receive assistance from a bystander. The … Read more

Walgreens supports heart and brain health through the American Heart Association’s Life Is Why campaign

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Shoppers can support the life-saving work of the American Heart Association Walgreens is once again proud to support the American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, through Life Is Why™, a cause marketing campaign benefitting the American Heart Association. Life Is Why inspires consumers to celebrate their … Read more

We Can Do This Campaign reaches thousands across the Greater Washington Region

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People at community events learning about COVID-19 vaccination.

Written by Henry Soffronoff, Community Impact Intern Protecting ourselves, our communities and our loved ones from COVID-19 is a collaborative effort. With support from the American Heart Association and the Department of Health & Human Services, local organizations offered free COVID-19 bivalent boosters across four community events last month. The We Can Do This Campaign … Read more

UnitedHealthcare Grant Saves and Improves Lives Across Montgomery County, MD

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Since 2022, UnitedHealthcare has worked with the American Heart Association of Greater Washington Region to administer a two-year grant to serve underrepresented residents of Montgomery County, Maryland. The grant works through the Primary Care Coalition, where the Association alongside three associated Federally Qualified Health Clinics including CCI Health & Wellness Community Service Center, Chinese Culture … Read more

Events with Heart Unite Thousands in Support of a World of Longer, Healthier Lives

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The third week of May brought a triple header of American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region events including Hearts Delight Wine Tasting & Auction and Lawyers Have Heart 10K, 5K and Fun Walk. The week concluded with the Association’s community impact team hosting a free miniature farmers market at Langley Park Day and included health education and a … Read more

Greater Washington Region Golf Tournament Saves and Improves Lives One Swing at a Time

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Four people standing in front of a step & repeat

Golf lovers, business leaders and health advocates came together for a day of fun, fellowship and philanthropy at the American Heart Association Greater Washington Region’s 38th annual Golf Tournament. The event teed off on Monday, May 1 at the Woodmont Country Club in Rockville, MD and was made possible through the support of our 2023 … Read more

Howard University Biology Students Participate in the Damar Hamlin’s #3forHeart CPR Challenge

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In celebration of American Heart Month, over 400 Howard University biology students participated in Damar Hamlin’s #3forHeart CPR Challenge. Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin collapsed on the field from a cardiac arrest and was saved by CPR. Hamlin hopes to use his experience to educate people about the importance of CPR and inspire them to … Read more

Wegmans and the American Heart Association teaming up to save lives through CPR

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With nearly 3 out of 4 cardiac arrests outside of the hospital occurring in homes, knowing how to perform CPR is critically important[1]. CPR, especially if performed immediately, could double or triple a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival[2]. That is why the American Heart Association, the worldwide leader in resuscitation science and education, and … Read more

¡Eventos Comunitarios ofrecen vacunas gratuitas, entregas de vegetales y más! 

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La inmunidad contra el COVID-19 no dura para siempre. La vacuna actualizada es necesaria para restaurar la protección de enfermedades graves, hospitalizaciones y muertes. Estamos ofreciendo vacunas GRATUITAS en los siguientes eventos comunitarios GRATUITOS, junto con algunos grandes incentivos como vegetales gratuitos. Puede venir sin cita y no se requiere seguro.  Domingo 21 de mayo … Read more

Sheehy Auto Stores gets hearts pumping on National Walking Day!

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The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives, and with the help of Live Fierce sponsor Sheehy Auto Stores, we’re getting hearts pumping, moving more and inspiring workplaces and people across the Greater Washington Region to be Healthy for Good! Improving your health and well-being starts with eating … Read more

Free COVID-19 bivalent booster vaccines available at upcoming community events

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Updated COVID-19 booster restores immunity and protects against Omicron variants Free COVID-19 bivalent booster vaccines available at upcoming community events With support from the American Heart Association and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, community organizations are offering free COVID-19 bivalent booster vaccines at four local upcoming events. The American Heart Association is … Read more

Hundreds celebrate life and honor heart and stroke survivors at the Heart Ball

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On Saturday, March 4, over 350 supporters of the American Heart Association joined the 2023 Heart of Greater Washington Chair, Vishal Tulsian of SAIC for the Heart Ball. Hosted at the Salamander Washington DC, guests bid, dined and dance in honor of their connection to the mission of the American Heart Association as a relentless … Read more

Take the #MoveMoreDC Challenge to Get More Steps in for National Walking Day

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The American Heart Association and Live Fierce sponsor Sheehy Auto Stores are challenging everyone to track 10,000 steps or more in honor of National Walking Day, Wednesday, April 5.  The day unites millions across the country in a commitment to live a healthier lifestyle and get physically active. Walking is one of the simplest ways … Read more

GPW Health Center improves hypertension control through a self-monitoring blood pressure initiative

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High blood pressure remains a leading cause of cardiovascular disease and stroke, impacting over 121 million U.S. adults. In the Greater Washington Region, nearly 25% of adults have high blood pressure, and many do not have it under control. Since 2020, Greater Prince William Community Health Center (GPW Health Center) has worked alongside the American … Read more

Maryland woman awards Greater Washington Region $10,000 as Amazon’s ‘most thanked’ driver

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Amazon team presenting American Heart Association $10,000 check

Written by Brendan Locke, Development Intern A simple thank you can go a long way. As Amazon’s ‘most thanked’ driver in December, Shirley Gale, a delivery driver based in Lanham, MD, had the opportunity to award $10,000 to a charity of her choice. Shirley chose the American Heart Association – Greater Washington Region because of … Read more

Jay Farmer of JLL and Brigette Perry of Penn Direct, Inc. to Co-Chair the 38th Annual Greater Washington Region Golf Tournament

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Four people on a golf course

The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, welcomes Jay Farmer and Brigette Perry as co-chairs of the 38th annual Greater Washington Region Golf Tournament. Jay Farmer, JLL Jay Farmer currently serves as Executive Managing Director, Brokerage for JLL, a global commercial real estate services firm.  He … Read more

Watkins Mill Elementary School receives grant in support of whole-body wellness

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American Heart Association and NFL Play 60 logos

Arlington, VA — Reducing sedentary behavior and increasing physical activity is key to immediate and long-term health for children. That is why the American Heart Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, the National Football League (NFL) and the Washington Commanders have awarded a $1,000 grant to Watkins Mill Elementary School in … Read more

Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing addresses hypertension through a blood pressure equipment loaner program

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Man checking his blood pressure at home

High blood pressure (BP) remains a leading cause of cardiovascular disease, impacting nearly half of U.S. adults, and many people with hypertension do not have it under control. Together with the Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing (APAH), the Greater Washington Region of the American Heart Association established a systematic community-based BP screening and referral program, … Read more

Five Volunteers Recognized for Outstanding Contributions that Save and Improve Lives

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The American Heart Association, the world’s leading voluntary health organization devoted to a world of longer, healthier lives, recently announced the recipients of this year’s Eastern States Volunteer Awards. Five outstanding Greater Washington Region volunteer leaders were honored because of their commitment to the cause and extraordinary collaborative achievement to advance the organization’s mission to … Read more

Thousands Step Out to Save and Improve Lives Across the Greater Washington Region

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On November 5, an uncharacteristically warm and sunny day, the American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region raised heartbeats and over $1.77 million to save and improve lives across the community during its 2022 Heart Walk. Thousands of friends, teams, coaches and sponsors came together on the National Mall to support lifesaving cardiovascular research, advocacy efforts … Read more

DC Go Red for Women Reception unites heart health advocates across the Greater Washington Region

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Since 2004, the Go Red for Women movement has educated millions of women about their greatest health threat: heart disease. Each year, cardiovascular disease causes 1 in 3 deaths among women, but too many remain unaware of their risks. On Thursday, November 17, the American Heart Association is shining a light on the health journey … Read more

35 Greater Washington Region health clinics recognized for efforts to address hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes

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Thirty-five health care organizations in the Greater Washington Region are among over 1,300 nationwide recognized through the American Heart Association’s (AHA) Target: BP, Check. Change. Control. Cholesterol (CCCC), and Target: Type 2 Diabetes initiatives. For nearly 100 years, the AHA has been a leading voice and relentless force for a world free of heart disease … Read more

Back to its Roots: The 33rd Running of Lawyers Have Heart Takes it Back to its Inaugural Location and a New Scenic Course

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Lawyers Have Heart brings together runners and walkers — of all ages and levels of experience — to raise funds for the American Heart Association (AHA) for groundbreaking research, , experience the mission through movement, and raise awareness of the prevention of heart disease and stroke and the link between physical activity and stress reduction. … Read more

2023 public policy agenda drives equitable health impact in the Greater Washington Region

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People stacking their hands in a circle

For nearly 100 years, the American Heart Association (AHA) has opened doors to equitable health through policy and system changes that save and improve lives. When it comes to fighting cardiovascular disease and stroke, a lot is at stake, especially in the Greater Washington Region where approximately a quarter of adults have hypertension, one-in-four kids … Read more

Virginia Schools Raise Over $1.7 Million, Introduce Youth Heart Ambassadors

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For over 43 years, the American Heart Association (AHA) has helped prepare kids for success by supporting their physical, mental, and emotional well-being through the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge. Now more than ever, it takes an extraordinary commitment to support students’ overall health. The AHA recommends children age 6 to 17 get … Read more

John D. Jenkins Elementary School Receives Grant for Health Resources

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Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge grant allow school to target whole-body wellness in support of physical and emotional health  The American Heart Association’s school-based youth programs, Kids Heart Challenge™ and American Heart Challenge™, awarded $1292 to the John D. Jenkins Elementary School in Woodbridge, VA to purchase hand weights and yoga mats for … Read more

Capitol Hill runner reunites with CPR heroes and first responders following cardiac arrest

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On Oct. 27, 2021, Delya Sommerville joined her jogging club for their usual Wednesday run around Capitol Hill, but for Delya, that morning is a blur. She doesn’t remember waking up, putting on her sneakers, or starting her workout. After going to bed the evening before, the next thing she recalls is waking up in … Read more

Howard University student named as 2021-2022 EmPOWERED to Serve Scholar

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Written by Shaneta Ford, Health Strategies Intern Every person deserves the opportunity for a full, healthy life, and as champions for health equity, the American Heart Association is making that vision a reality. Guided by 10 bold commitments, we are dedicated to removing barriers to health care access and quality and advancing cardiovascular health for … Read more

27 hospitals in the Greater Washington Region recognized for efforts to improve outcomes for Americans with heart disease and stroke

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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. Twenty-seven hospitals in the Greater Washington Region are among the 2,600 nationwide that participate in the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® initiative to improve outcomes for Americans who experience heart disease … Read more

Your Impact in the Greater Washington Region

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For nearly 100 years, the American Heart Association has been fighting heart disease and stroke. Alongside our supporters, volunteers, community organizations, and clinical partners, we have helped millions of families and communities thrive across the globe. Since 1949, the Association has invested over $5 billion in research funding, more than any nonprofit organization except the … Read more

Heart of Greater Washington Leadership and 2023 Heart Ball Date Announced

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The American Heart Association (AHA), the world’s leading nonprofit committed to advancing heart and brain health for all, has named Sanjay Sardar and Vishal Tulsian of SAIC as co-chairs of the 2023 Heart of Greater Washington campaign. Culminating with the Heart Ball celebration on March 4, 2023, the year-round campaign unites individuals and companies across … Read more

Maryland Schools Raise Over $1.6 Million, Welcome Youth Heart Ambassadors

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For over 43 years, the American Heart Association (AHA) has helped prepare kids for success by supporting their physical, mental, and emotional well-being through the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge. Now more than ever, it takes an extraordinary commitment to support students’ overall health. The AHA recommends children age 6 to 17 get … Read more

Driving Change: The American Heart Association Salutes Volunteer Leaders for Serving on the Board and Announces New Leadership and Members

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The American Heart Association (AHA) Greater Washington Region is powered by volunteers who drive the mission of the organization across all communities. The AHA thanks members who have completed their board terms, has named a new president and chair-elect and welcomes four new members to its board of directors. Together they serve as a relentless … Read more

Heart’s Delight serves up a four-day celebration of life and heart health

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World-class winemakers, oenophiles, chefs, and foodies gathered in Washington, DC from May 4-7 for the nation’s only four-day celebration of food and wine benefiting the American Heart Association. The 22nd annual Greater Washington Region Heart’s Delight Wine Tasting & Auction chaired by John Bozzella of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation highlighted the best in American … Read more

Greater Washington Executives and Companies Make Bold Commitments to Heart and Brain Health

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On the ninety-eighth anniversary of the founding of the American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region leaders are making bold commitments to stand with the Association as it drives toward its 2024 Impact Goal which is focused on improving cardiovascular health for all while identifying and removing barriers to health care access and quality.  

 “As champions for health equity, the American Heart Association believes that everyone everywhere deserves the opportunity to live a full and healthy life” said Owen Billman, chair of the Greater Washington Region Board of Directors and president of Blake Real Estate.  “Although we have made tremendous progress in fighting heart disease and stroke in our community, our work is far from complete. The American Heart Association Founders Day provides a great reminder that we must continue the fight so every single person in our community has access to the resources they need to be healthy.” 

The American Heart Association, the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke, was founded in 1924 by six cardiologists, and the distinguished achievements of the organization over nearly one hundred years are the result of the passion of more than 40 million volunteers, supporters and employees who together have raised – and funded — more than $4.8 billion in research 

For nearly a century, the American Heart Association has saved and improved lives, pioneered scientific discovery and advocated for healthy public policies in communities across the country. These bold moves have helped transform the nation’s overall health and significantly reduce heart disease and stroke death rates. 

Reaching for bold goals is made possible because of like-minded leaders who share in the vision of better health for Greater Washington. Leading supporters of the American Heart Association in the Greater Washington Region include: The Bender Foundation; Harrity & Harrity, LLP; The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Charitable Fund, a fund of the American Endowment Foundation, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Linda Gooden & Laird Lott, Kaiser Permanente, SAIC, and Sheehy Auto Stores.  

Another bold commitment made by local leaders is the commitment to serve as chair for Greater Washington Region signature events through 2024. These seven chairpersons have demonstrated the leadership needed to catapult the American Heart Association into achieving their 2024 Impact Goal, signing on to chair future campaigns:   

  • Cynthia Cifuentes, Vice President of Brand, Communications and Community Engagement at Kaiser Permanente, and Dr. Ameya Kulkarni, an interventional cardiologist and the lead for cardiology and cardiovascular surgery at Kaiser Permanente, serving as 2022 Heart Challenge Co-Chairs 
  • Deb Wells and Kara Walsh of the Women’s Board of the American Heart Association serving as 2023 An Affair of the Heart Luncheon & Fashion Show Co-Chairs
  • John Harrity, Partner of Harrity & Harrity and David Jaffe, Associate Dean of Student Affairs at American University Washington College of Law, serving as 2023 Lawyers Have Heart 10K Race, 5K Run, and Fun Walk Co-Chairs  
  • Sanjay Sardar, Senior Vice President at SAIC, and Vishal Tulsian, Senior Vice President at SAIC serving as 2023 Heart Ball Co-Chairs 

 ”We are just getting started on the next chapter of our relentless work to end heart disease and stroke,” said Vishal Tulsian, Senior Vice President of SAIC.  “We know that we can’t achieve our monumental goals alone and are grateful to the Greater Washington community for the passion and commitment they give to support the mission of the American Heart Association.” 

Driving to achieve the 2024 Impact Goal, the American Heart Association will continue to lead breakthroughs in science and technology, improve health care and advocate for federal, state and local policies drive healthier lifestyles.  

To learn more about the American Heart Association visit, heart.org/FoundersDay or contact elizabeth.treble@heart.org for more information. 

Walgreens supports heart and brain health through the American Heart Association’s Life Is Why campaign

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Shoppers can support the life-saving work of the American Heart Association Walgreens is proud to support the American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, through Life Is Why™, a cause marketing campaign benefitting the American Heart Association. Life Is Why inspires consumers to celebrate their reasons … Read more

Greater Washington Region Golf Tournament is a Hole in One for Heart Health

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Golf lovers from across the greater DC region polished off their best clubs and joined the American Heart Association (AHA) Greater Washington Region for its 37th annual Golf Tournament, raising over $167,000 to advance cardiovascular research, education and programming. Thirty foursomes comprised of organizations and individuals from a variety of industries joined us at the … Read more

Heart Challenge Leadership Announced in the Greater Washington Region

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The American Heart Association program supports the overall health and well-being of the workforce The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on ensuring longer, healthier lives for all, has named Cynthia Cifuentes, Vice President of Brand, Communications and Community Engagement at Kaiser Permanente, and Dr. Ameya Kulkarni, an interventional cardiologist and the … Read more

Greater Washington Region Heart Ball Heads Back to the Ballroom, Raises Over $1 Million in honor of CPR Awareness and Education

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For the first time since February 2020, we greeted approximately 300 friends and supporters of the American Heart Association’s (AHA) Greater Washington Region for an evening of dining, dancing and fellowship at the Heart Ball. As guests descended the escalators of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Washington DC, they were transported back to the ballroom … Read more

Gia had open heart surgery at three days old. Now, she’s celebrating her second birthday.

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Michele and John McGovern III always dreamed of starting their own family. So, when they found out they were pregnant and expecting their first child in March of 2020, words could not describe how overjoyed, blessed, and hopeful the couple felt. After what seemed to be a smooth and typical pregnancy, the McGoverns received shocking … Read more

Walkers Stride to Better Health on National Walking Day

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The American Heart Association (AHA) is on a mission to be Healthy for Good every day. The approach is simple, eat smart, be well and of course MOVE MORE! In April our focus is to get everyone to move more and sit less with the help of workplaces, communities and people around the world. The AHA and Live Fierce … Read more

Rich Sawchak of HYPORI and Brigette Perry of THEYA Healthcare to Co-Chair the 37th Annual Greater Washington Region Golf Tournament

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The American Heart Association (AHA), the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, welcomes Rich Sawchak and Brigette Perry as Co-Chairs of the 37th annual Greater Washington Region Golf Tournament. Sawchak currently serves as Chief Financial Officer for HYPORI, a virtual mobility software company with local offices in McLean, VA, … Read more

Montgomery County Council Passes Kids’ Meal Bill, Making Healthier Dining Choices Easier

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Montgomery County, MD took a first step in serving kids better by making healthier dining choices easier. On March 1, the County Council passed healthy kids meals legislation by an 8-1 vote. While the policy ensures healthier food and beverages for kids’ meals at county restaurants, it still allows adults to purchase any items for … Read more

74th Annual An Affair of the Heart Valentine’s Day Digital Celebration Connects Women Across Generations

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The 74th Annual An Affair of the Heart Valentine’s Day Digital Celebration presented by the Women’s Board of the American Heart Association (AHA) transported guests from the comfort of their home to the runways of Chevy Chase, Maryland for an afternoon of inspiring people across generations to unite in the fight against heart disease and … Read more

Vishal Tulsian of SAIC to Chair the 2022 Heart of Greater Washington Campaign

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Culminating with the Heart Ball in April, the campaign seeks to improve health outcomes by focusing on CPR as a cornerstone of the chain of survival. The American Heart Association (AHA), the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, has named Vishal Tulsian as Chair of the Heart of Greater … Read more

The American Heart Association and Johns Hopkins Medicine – National Capital Region Call on Women across the Greater Washington Region to ‘Reclaim Your Rhythm’ for Heart Month and Beyond

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The American Heart Association, the leading global volunteer organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke, is proud to announce that Johns Hopkins Medicine – National Capital Region (JHM-NCR) is the Live Fierce Go Red sponsor for the Greater Washington Region. JHM-NCR will focus on women’s physical and mental health around the Go Red for Women campaign that will educate the community through multiple public awareness campaigns and online educational experiences.

“When it comes to women, particularly women of color and younger women, we continue to see disparities around the recognition of symptoms, treatment of chronic stress and more,” said Jessica Melton, president and chief operating officer of Suburban Hospital, part of JHM-NCR. “Women have unique needs and risks factors when it comes to heart health. Our physicians and care teams are focused on raising awareness and bringing their expertise to support the health and well-being of women across our region.”

The campaign launches with a call for women to “Reclaim Your Rhythm” starting on Friday, February 4, as a part of the Association’s Go Red for Women National Wear Red Day.

“Go Red for Women and JHM-NCR will help women by promoting opportunities to build healthy habits and learn from

leading experts throughout the year,” said Soula Antoniou, executive director of the American Heart Association. “We’re thankful for the ongoing commitment of Johns Hopkins Medicine to improve women’s lives.”

Experts say the effects of COVID-19 are likely to influence cardiovascular health and mortality rates for many years[1], directly and indirectly, physically and emotionally.

“Now’s the time for women everywhere to prioritize their health and well-being and ‘reclaim the rhythm’ that allows them to

flourish,” said Carolyn Carpenter, president of Johns Hopkins Health System for the National Capital Region. “We recognize that fulfilling our mission of improving the health of our communities requires that we increase our support to the women who form its foundation. Our plan is to do just that through expanding access to services, disseminating new knowledge and bringing additional clinical expertise to the women of the NCR.”

5 Ways YOU Can Reclaim Your Rhythm:

Mellow Out and Reduce Stress
Stress leads to unhealthy habits like overeating, physical inactivity, smoking and risk factors for heart disease and stroke like high blood pressure, depression or anxiety.

Move to the Music
Physical activity is linked to lower risk of diseases, stronger bones and muscles, improved mental health and cognitive function, and lower risk of depression.

Feed Your Soul, Rock Your Recipes
Eat meals together as a family for a chance to connect and decompress. Regular meals at home with family reduce stress, boost self-esteem and make the whole family feel connected.

Stay on Beat with Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is a leading cause and controllable risk factor for heart disease and stroke and can contribute to worse outcomes for people who contract COVID-19.

Keep the Beat! Learn Hands-Only CPR
When a person has a cardiac arrest, survival depends on immediately receiving CPR from someone nearby. Help your community reclaim their rhythm by learning the two simple steps of Hands-Only CPR: Call 911, then press hard and fast in the center of the chest.

Join the conversation on social media by using #GoRedDC, #HeartMonth and #WearRedDay. The American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women® movement is nationally sponsored by CVS Health and locally sponsored by Johns Hopkins Medicine. Learn more about upcoming events and download health resources at www.DCGoRed.Heart.org.

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[1]   https://newsroom.heart.org/news/heart-disease

Krysta’s Heart Stopped on the Operating Table. Now She’s Reclaiming Her Rhythm During American Heart Month!

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On the morning of September 24, 2021, Krysta headed into the doctor for a pre-scheduled hip surgery. As an active 30-year-old with no pre-existing conditions or serious health concerns, Krysta anticipated a simple operation. The last thing she remembers is going under anesthesia around 11 a.m. Two days later, she woke up confined to a … Read more

Montgomery County, Maryland Councilmembers Seek to Make Kids’ Meals Healthier

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*** Community health advocates including AHA Greater Washington Region Board member Dr. Yolandra Hancock and representatives from NAACP, CASA, Center for Science in the Public Interest and others testified in support of the bill during a Montgomery County Council hearing on Tuesday, February 1.   If you are what you eat, then Montgomery County, Maryland … Read more

Five Greater Washington Region Volunteer Leaders Honored with American Heart Association Volunteer Awards

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The American Heart Association (AHA), the world’s leading voluntary health organization devoted to a world of longer, healthier lives depends on a dedicated group of people who are willing to give their time and energy to help enhance quality of life across their communities. The 2021 Volunteer Awards were presented to forty-four Eastern States region … Read more

Georgetown University Student Receives $10,000 Grant for Accessible EMT Training Program

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The 2021 American Heart Association EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator™ recognized Georgetown University student Cornelia Williams and the DC-area nonprofit EMTomorrow for committing to community transformation and health equity as the second-place, $10,000 grant recipient. A senior studying human science and certified EMT, Cornelia co-founded EMTomorrow in June 2020 to bridge a gap in EMT … Read more

Ready. Set. Go! Registration Opens for the 32nd Lawyers Have Heart 10k, 5K, and Fun Walk!

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Lawyers Have Heart brings together runners and walkers — of all ages, levels of experience — to raise funds for the American Heart Association (AHA) and increase awareness of heart attack and stroke prevention. In 2022, the Lawyers Have Heart 10K, 5K and Fun Walk will be back in-person in Washington, DC on June 11 to reinvigorate heart-healthy lifestyles by uniting the community around better health and well-being, a fun experience and opportunity to help save lives. This year will also offer a virtual option to run or walk wherever inspiration strikes.

Stepping up again are previous Co-Chairs Harrity & Harrity LLP’s Co-Founder John Harrity and American University Washington College of Law’s Associate Dean of Student Affairs, David Jaffe.

Lawyers Have Heart Co-Chair, John Harrity

“No matter where you choose to walk, participating and donating to Lawyers Have Heart will save lives and improve lives.” said Harrity. “As a survivor of a widow-maker heart attack, this race is truly personal to me. I am here today because of the science funded by the AHA. It’s my mission to share this event with as many people as possible. So many lives depend on it!”

For Jaffe, the event serves as a platform for mental health awareness and stress reduction in the legal profession. Research shows that chronic stressors like long work

Lawyers Have Heart Co-Chair, David Jaffe

hours, financial stress, and work-life conflict may be as risky for health as secondhand smoke. “Chronic stress does not have to be the norm, and according to the AHA, reducing stress and cultivating a positive mindset can improve health and well-being. Being a part of the Lawyers Have Heart campaign allows many to set personal goals to begin their positive health journey,” said Jaffe.

Courtesy of platform sponsor Harry & Harrity LLP, between December 1 – 31 sponsorships, donations, and registration fees will be matched for up to $50,000. “That’s doubling the impact your dollar has,” added Harrity.

Lawyers Have Heart began in 1991 as a running and walking event for the legal community and has evolved into a staple on DC’s running calendar attracting runners and walkers of all levels of experience and from all walks of life. This event annually attracts over 6,500 runners and walkers to participate in a 10K or 5K course through neighborhoods in DC. Due to the pandemic, the last two years have been fully virtual with participants running and walking in support of the AHA from around the world – United States, England, Croatia, Spain, South Africa, Japan, Turkey, Chile, and more. To date, Lawyers Have Heart has raised over $17 million to benefit the American Heart Association to further its mission of being a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.

The 2019 Lawyers Have Heart Start Line

“We can’t wait to come together in person this year with the beloved race experience we’ve all missed,” said Jaffe. “We also are excited to continue to grow this race and field runners and walkers from around the world.”

Registration opens on December 1 with virtual and in-person options and prices to enter will increase in 2022. Sign up as a team or individual at www.LawyersHaveHeartDC.org. For sponsorship opportunities email ESLawyersHaveHeart@heart.org.  Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and use #RUNLHH.

Greater Washington D.C. Community Organizations Receive Funding to Shift Inequitable Health Paradigm

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The American Heart Association (AHA), the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, announced four greater Washington region-based organizations will receive $800,000 in funding from the Association’s Bernard J. Tyson Impact Fund to help remove the social and economic impediments to health equity. Contributions from John R. Houston III (posthumous), The … Read more

Greater Washington Region Heart Walk Strides Past $1.75 Million

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The American Heart Association (AHA) Greater Washington Region raised funds and raised heartbeats for the health and well-being of our community during its 2021 Heart Walk on Saturday, November 6. Friends, teams, coaches and sponsors walked on the National Mall or created their own pop-up start lines to support lifesaving cardiovascular research and advocate for … Read more

Emergency Telecommunications Centers Are a Vital Part of a Lifesaving System

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Each year an estimated 350,000 sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) events occur in the United States in an out-of-hospital environment. In 2020, D.C. Fire and EMS reported 964 SCAs in D.C. with only a 4.7% survival rate. An SCA occurs when the heart’s electrical system abruptly malfunctions, and the heart suddenly stops beating normally. It can … Read more

Greater Washington Region Golf Tournament “Tees Off” a Day of Fundraising and Fellowship

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The 36th American Heart Association Greater Washington Region Golf Tournament “teed off” on Nov. 1 at the Woodmont Country Club in Rockville, MD, to celebrate the AHA’s mission through movement and fellowship on the golf course. The tournament featured 18-holes of golf, a longest drive competition, special guest speakers and an award reception. With 36 … Read more

Washington D.C. Researcher Recognized at Scientific Sessions 2021

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Scientific Sessions 2021

Tiffany M. Powell-Wiley, M.D., M.P.H., FAHA of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute is the 2021 recipient of the American Heart Association’s Population Research Prize to be presented on Sunday, Nov. 14 during the Presidential Session of the Association’s Scientific Sessions 2021. The Population Research Prize recognizes Dr. Powell-Wiley for her outstanding contributions to … Read more

Greater Washington Region Board Member Saves a Life Through CPR

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Newly elected to the American Heart Association Greater Washington Region Board of Directors, Bryan O. Buckley, DRPH, MPH was out for a bike ride with a friend on Three Notch Trail in Maryland. He never anticipated on that day that they would save a life. Not long into their ride, Bryan and his friend watched … Read more

New awareness campaign “Stay Fuerte for All” aims to reduce health disparities impacting the Hispanic community across the Greater Washington Region

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The American Heart Association combats COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and the prevalence of misinformation during Hispanic Heritage Month Arlington, VA — The health, job safety and financial impact of COVID-19 has hit Hispanic Americans hard. In fact, Hispanic peoples are almost 2.5[1] times as likely to have died from COVID-19 than white/ non-Hispanic people, when age … Read more

The American Heart Association’s Equity-Focused 2022 Public Policy Agenda Builds on Health Impact in 2021

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Every day, Americans’ lives are touched by heart disease and stroke. Whether it is our own health that is impacted or the lives of family members, friends, or co-workers, there is a lot at stake when it comes to fighting our nation’s No. 1 and No. 5 killers – cardiovascular disease and stroke. As a champion for health equity in the Greater Washington Region the American Heart Association (AHA) will advance cardiovascular health for all by supporting legislation that removes barriers to health care access and quality, improves access to nutritious food and water and strengthens funding for community and family programs.

The AHA Greater Washington Region recently released its 2022 public policy agenda.

“The proposed priorities build on the community-based health impact of recent

Dr. Asch
Dr. Federico Asch, president of the Board of Directors, American Heart Association Greater Washington Region

years and seek to promote health equity across Northern Virginia, Washington, DC and Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties in Maryland,” said Dr. Federico Asch, president of the American Heart Association Greater Washington Region Board of Directors and cardiologist at MedStar Health. “In 2022, the AHA, its You’re the Cure advocates and coalition partners will tackle a variety of urgent community needs including food security, tobacco control, health equity, and emergency response.”

Highlights of the policy agenda include:

  • Implementing and funding DC’s flavored tobacco sales restriction law passed in 2021.
  • Ensuring all 911 call takers are trained to teach CPR over the phone
  • Expanding access to water and reducing sugary drink consumption in schools
  • Creating heathier kids’ meals menus at restaurants
  • Increasing access to healthy and affordable fruits and vegetables
  • Identifying funding for health equity programs
  • Expanding postpartum Medicaid coverage to 12 months

This equity-focused 2022 agenda builds on important health impact in 2021, which included legislation that:

  • Restricts the sale of flavored tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and menthol in Washington, DC. (only the 2nd state to do so).
  • Requires restaurant kids’ meals in Prince George’s County to meet healthier nutrition standards for both the food and beverage (the nation’s only such policy).
  • Doubles DC’s investment in Produce Rx, allowing more  under-resourced residents to access affordable and nutritious food.

By convening advocates and community partners, the AHA makes a difference by putting forward policies that help build healthier communities and healthier lives. For more information and to get involved, sign-up at: https://www.yourethecure.org/.

Click here to view the entire 2022 DC Policy Agenda.

Palliative care for heart failure patients may lower rehospitalization risk and improve outcomes

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New research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association indicates palliative care can significantly lower the risk of rehospitalization and the need for invasive procedures including mechanical ventilation and defibrillator implantation for heart failure patients. Palliative care provides support to patients with chronic conditions to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. Predominately occurring in the home, it focuses … Read more

‘He Saved All of Our Lives’: Soccer Coach’s Observation Leads to Lifesaving Diagnosis for D.C. Family

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Competitive soccer players Ava and Maci are participating in the American Heart Association's 2021 Greater Washington Region Heart Walk.

It was like any other day when competitive soccer players Ava and Maci headed into a summer soccer clinic in August 2020. After some time off from travel sports during the COVID-19 pandemic, both were eager to restart their training before school, however, not long into the clinic, Ava started experiencing dizziness and felt faint. … Read more

Virtual Cooking Classes Increase Heart-Healthy Habits in Latina Mothers

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In 2017, the American Heart Association (AHA) teamed up with the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington to connect over 1,300 DC area residents to Simple Cooking with Heart. The curriculum teaches participants cooking skills and instills confidence in the kitchen through the lens of improving heart health with better nutrition. Before COVID-19, in-person classes were primarily … Read more

Dr. Reginald Robinson Named President of the American Heart Association’s Eastern States Region Board of Directors

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Robinson to help in mission to fight heart disease and stroke across  thirteen states from Virginia to Maine and Washington, D.C. Dr. Reginald Robinson, MD, has assumed the role of President of the Board of Directors for the Eastern States region of the American Heart Association (AHA), the world’s leading voluntary health organization dedicated to … Read more

Pittsburgh Pastor Receives Top Grant at the First EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator™ Faith-Based

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The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, announced the top awardees of its first-ever EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator™ Faith-Based hosted by the Eastern States region. The first-place grant of $50,000 was awarded to Pastor Cynthia Wallace of Bible Center Church in the Homewood neighborhood of … Read more

The DC Council passes historic legislation to protect the next generation from being hooked by Big Tobacco

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The DC Council voted 8-5 for the final passage of the Flavored Tobacco Product Prohibition Amendment Act of 2021 On Tuesday, June 29, the DC Council made history by passing the Flavored Tobacco Product Prohibition Amendment Act of 2021 (B24-0020) ending the sale of flavored tobacco products in the District of Columbia. This landmark legislation … Read more

Quick Action Saved Brady’s Life

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Submitted by: Kerry Petrauskas, mother to Brady Lukas Our sweet boy, Brady Lukas, was born on February 26, 2016. As far as we knew he was a healthy 7 pound 8 ounce, 20 inch long, little pumpkin, who passed his “going home” tests with flying colors. I want to preface by saying that hindsight is … Read more

Five Faith-Based Organizations Named as Finalists in the American Heart Association’s First EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator™ Faith-Based

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Over $105,000 in Grants Will be Awarded to Local Community Leaders Faith-based organizations and places of worship have played an important role during the COVID-19 crisis in our country. These organizations and their volunteers and staff have been on the frontline, mitigating the impact of COVID-19 and providing communities with much needed guidance and support. … Read more

31st Lawyers Have Heart Participants Log Miles and Smiles from Around the World

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The American Heart Association (AHA), the world’s leading voluntary health organization devoted to a world of longer, healthier lives is proud to celebrate the 3,700 runners and walkers who took part in the 31st annual Lawyers Have Heart 10K Race, 5K Run and Walk.  Due to lingering COVID restrictions the race was held as digital … Read more

Steppers from Around the World Rally for #MoveMoreDC Day and Log Enough Steps to get from Washington, DC to London!

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The American Heart Association (AHA) is on a mission to be Healthy for Good every day. The approach is simple, eat smart, be well and of course MOVE MORE! In April our focus is to get everyone to move more and sit less with the help of workplaces, communities and people like you. The AHA and Live Fierce sponsor, Sheehy … Read more

Time to Train: Lawyers Have Heart Digital Experience Increases the Pace with a Kick-Off, Rally Day and More!

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The 31st Annual Lawyers Have Heart 10K Race, 5K Run and Walk will be a groundbreaking year – together we will raise $1.5 million for the American Heart Association! With the health and safety of our participants remaining our top priority, this year’s race will again be a digital experience. With no geographic boundaries, we will recruit … Read more

Find Your Fierce on April 14 and Move More with the American Heart Association and Sheehy Auto Stores!

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We are on a mission to be Healthy for Good™ every day. The approach is simple, eat smart, be well and of course MOVE MORE! Join us this April and beyond as we focus on getting everyone to move more and sit less with the help of workplaces, communities and people like you. The American … Read more

New Bill Could Bolster Health While Curbing Sugary Drink Consumption in Washington, D.C.

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Article Submitted by: Terra Hall, Voices for Healthy Kids Type 2 diabetes. High blood pressure. Tooth decay.. While most physicians are accustomed to treating these chronic illnesses, Yolandra Hancock, MD, was surprised when she began diagnosing these conditions in the patients who came to her practice. “Imagine a bathtub filled with sugary drinks like sweet … Read more

EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator™ Faith-Based Workshop Highlights Powerful Partnerships, Kicks-Off Grant Application Period

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Webinar panelists four-pane
Webinar panelists share wisdom around community impact.

The power of partnerships built on trust, dignity and respect was a key theme during March 17th’s EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator™ Faith-Based Workshop Zoom webinar, hosted by the American Heart Association (AHA), Eastern States region.

“When you see value in people, it affirms that value that is in you,” said Dr. Abraham Shanklin, Jr. Founder/Executive Director of the Center for Transformation in Maryland, an AHA collaborator.

During the webinar, Shanklin and ENON Tabernacle Baptist Church Rev. Leroy Miles, Jr. of Philadelphia, provided tips based on their own experiences in bolstering scalable community impact.

“It’s about those relationships that give you access,” said Miles. “Don’t be afraid to try, don’t be afraid to ask.”

Shanklin speaking
Bishop Shanklin

Shanklin and Miles offered wisdom gleaned from their own community leadership experiences to inspire webinar participants as AHA, Eastern States region launched the application cycle opening for it’s EmPOWERED to Serve Faith-Based Accelerator. The Faith-Based Accelerator is a grant-funding initiative for faith institutions and leaders to continue and scale their business models aimed at addressing social determinants of health in their communities. AHA aligns with faith-based communities to improve health and empower sustainable outcomes. Applications for a total of $105K in grant funding to communities of faith in select states will be accepted through April 30, 2021. Learn more or apply here.

Miles headsot
Reverend Miles

Shanklin and Miles were joined by AHA’s Vice President, Health Equity and National Partnerships Pamela Garmon-Johnson, who emphasized how important it is to deploy resources “connecting the dots so that we can have the greatest impact on our communities.”

“We have been charged with a purpose in order to be the voice for the voiceless….when we put all of our resources together that is when we can truly, truly put together the greatest difference,” said Garmon-Johnson.

Both Miles and Shanklin have successfully bolstered efforts to positively impact the social determinants of health in their own communities — factors that influence where and how people live, learn, work and play and provide context to a person’s life. Social determinants can play just as big of a role in affecting health as medications and physical lifestyle changes. Their work has included focusing on recidivism, family stability, food security, and health knowledge.

“We’ve tried to be a model and help you replicate [successful programs] at your spot,” said Miles, who collaborated to move ENON’s annual “Know Your Numbers” health-screening day, aimed at reaching 1,000 Philadelphia men, to a drive-through experience amid COVID-19. Participants were able to get take-home colon screening kits, HIV screenings, BP checks, glucose, cholesterol, and COVID screenings at the event which Miles termed a “significant pivot in such a time as this.” AHA provided take-home blood pressure kits for self-monitoring for those who were found to be hypertensive.

“You all are heroes in your respective areas, the assignments that you have, the passion that you have. All of these ideas [we are putting forth], they serve just as starting blocks,” said Shanklin. Among the many initiatives of the Center, Shanklin and his partners were able to feed 1200 people in Maryland and distribute over 50K pounds of food by leveraging county relationships.

Both Miles and Shanklin highlighted the value of partnering with organizations, including AHA. “I love the partnerships with AHA and EmPOWERED to Serve,” said Shanklin. Miles noted that the reimagined “Know Your Numbers” program gained traction due to partnerships with local AHA board members and Einstein Health.

“Powerful partnerships, meeting people where they are, and speaking with a trustworthy voice are three of the AHA’s Guiding Values — our 10 commitments to health equity — this shores up making sure that we are holding ourselves accountable so that we can make an impact,” said Garmon-Johnson.

American Heart Association, Eastern States Vice President Health Strategies Rhonda Ford-Chatmon asked webinar participants to provide feedback so that AHA can continue to strengthen community partnerships.

“Tell us what you need. We are here to be responsible. We are listening to you, and we want to be of help,” said Ford-Chatmon. She invited anyone with community needs to email questions or ideas to 2021FaithBasedAccelerator@heart.org

To watch the entire workshop, click here.

Social impact entrepreneurs: Funding available for health equity solutions in the greater Washington D.C. region

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Funding will support community-led social and economic solutions intended to improve health equity through American Heart Association’s Bernard J. Tyson Impact Fund WASHINGTON, D.C., March 8, 2021 — The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, today announced $1 million in targeted funding through the Association’s … Read more

The American Heart Association Launches Funding Initiative Aimed at Supporting Communities through Local Faith Institutions

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Faith-based organizations and places of worship have played an important role during the COVID-19 crisis in our country. These organizations and their volunteers and staff have been on the frontline, mitigating the impact of COVID-19 and providing communities with much needed guidance and support. That is why the American Heart Association’s Eastern States Region is … Read more

Opinion: Insurance coverage for all forms of telehealth essential for equity, chronic-disease management in Maryland

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Volunteer Shuron Abdullah, a retired registered respiratory therapist with three-decades of experience shares her advocacy around protecting telehealth, as told to April Dawn Shinske. Shuron is an American Heart Association volunteer and has been a Basic Life Support/Heartsaver instructor. 

“I’m cold. I’m cold.”

The pleading words of my late father-in-law, Pat, during in-person visits to his doctors have stayed with me, following his passing. Our preparations for his outings were always thoughtful. But at 95, no amount of bundling him up seemed to bring Pat complete comfort. Trips left him exhausted for days to follow.

Then, we began using telehealth–a Godsend–to meet Pat’s needs. Suddenly, everything became easier and more comfortable for Pat. He could remain warm resting in his bed, while we brought the phone or computer to him. Pat was able to visit with his regular doctor, and feel safe knowing he was in familiar, good hands. Especially as we worked through dementia and months of end-of-life care, telehealth became not only a better solution, it became essential to Pat’s wellbeing.

My experiences as a primary elder caregiver coupled with my three-decades as a registered respiratory therapist, community health volunteer and American Heart Association Basic Life Support and Heartsaver instructor and volunteer make me certain that telehealth is essential for our communities–most especially communities of color like my own, where adequate healthcare access is often limited.

We must act now to be sure all insurance providers cover audio-only and video telehealth options. We must support, and ask our legislators to support, bills HB123 and SB3 to protect telehealth for all. You can help by joining the American Heart Association’s You’re the Cure network and taking action, today.

There are many ways in which telehealth increases access to care. Telehealth eliminates the need for travel, especially for people who may not have access to personal transportation. For folks dealing with chronic diseases, people who rely on oxygen as an example, finding practical ways to readily access public transportation–and to afford it–may be nearly impossible. The pandemic has exacerbated these barriers to healthcare access. Telehealth by phone or computer allows people to practice prevention and chronic disease management under the guidance of qualified healthcare professionals, reducing strain on the need for emergency care during this critical moment and beyond. The elderly and those nearing end-of-life are especially positively impacted by access to telehealth.

If you need a reason to support access to audio and video telehealth, I ask you to recall my father-in-law, Pat, and the many like him. We can’t leave our most vulnerable community members in the cold when it comes to access to healthcare–telehealth brings prevention, chronic-disease management, and wellbeing to the warmth of home.

Please Join You’re the Cure to begin taking action and contacting your lawmakers today.

-Shuron Abdullah

Bowie, MD

See more from Shuron about why it is so important to protect insurance coverage for all forms of telehealth in Maryland:

Telehealth critically-important for chronic-disease management

Telehealth essential tool for eldercare

Telehealth benefits patients on oxygen

Telehealth fosters access and equity for vulnerable 

Breaking: Maryland General Assembly Overrides the Tobacco Tax Veto

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Advocates Say the Tobacco Tax Increase Will Save Lives and Increase Revenue Today, the Maryland Senate voted to override the governor’s veto of HB 732, the final step in enacting the state’s first cigarette tax increase in almost a decade. The policy includes a $1.75 per pack increase on cigarettes and, for the first time, … Read more

Stay Motivated with the Healthy For Good Lifestyle Change Award Honorees

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Staying motivated for fitness and well-being can sometimes be a struggle but keeping active and eating well is crucial to maintaining long-term health for your heart and body. With a new year brings new goals. To give you a boost, we’re sharing how seven members or our community made some changes and took steps to … Read more

The American Heart Association, Kaiser Permanente Team Up to Encourage the Greater Washington Region to Go Red and be Healthy for Good

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The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, is excited to announce that Kaiser Permanente, has teamed up with the Greater Washington Region division to advance a shared goal to help

Ruth Williams-Brinkley, Regional President of Kaiser Permanente in the Mid-Atlantic States

community members live longer, healthier lives free of heart disease and stroke. Kaiser Permanente has joined as a three-year Healthy for Good sponsor in the Greater Washington region and a founding member of the DC Go Red for Women campaign. Together Kaiser Permanente and the AHA also will launch a series of digital conversations to provide education on critical health priorities.

As part of this sponsorship, Ruth Williams-Brinkley, regional president of Kaiser Permanente, will lead the 2021 efforts for DC Go Red, and will chair the 2022 Greater Washington Region Heart Walk. The Association also recently announced that Jill Feldon, vice president of Strategy Communication for Kaiser Permanente, will chair the 2021 Greater Washington Region Heart Walk.

“It is through powerful commitments like this that we can drive sustainable change across our region,” said Soula Antoniou, Executive Director of the American Heart Association. “Over the next three years Kaiser Permanente will help us to engage the Greater Washington community in new and profound ways that lead to improved physical health and mental well-being. Through their support of the inaugural DC Go Red for Women campaign, they are helping to ensure that all women have an opportunity for a healthy, positive future for themselves and those they care for.”

February is American Heart Month and underscores the importance of the campaign’s goal to build awareness that cardiovascular disease is the leading health threat and that people should take action to lower their risk – particularly women. As the first DC Go Red for Women campaign chair, Williams-Brinkley will lead the 2021 fundraising efforts for Go Red, which encourages women to take charge of their heart health and combat heart disease and stroke.

As regional president of Kaiser Permanente in the Mid-Atlantic States, Ruth Williams-Brinkley oversees care delivery and health plan operations in Washington, D.C., and suburban Maryland, Baltimore and Northern Virginia. The region operates 34 medical office buildings and has 770,000 members.

“I am honored to lead the inaugural DC Go Red For Women campaign and to have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the heart health of people in the communities we serve,” said Williams-Brinkley. “This mission is near and dear to my heart, as it is an extension of the important work being done at Kaiser Permanente to eliminate health care disparities and expand access to care for all in our community.”

The DC Go Red for Women campaign extends the legacy of longstanding women-focused events like An Affair of the Heart Luncheon & Fashion Show to create additional experiences to support women where they are and continues to promote the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association. An inaugural DC Go Red for Women celebration will be held later in the Spring. Plans will evolve based on CDC recommendations around gathering and the nation’s health landscape. The Go Red for Women movement is nationally sponsored by CVS Health and locally sponsored by Kaiser Permanente.

To get involved and for more information, please contact Heidi.arnold@heart.org or visit DCGoRed.heart.org.  Follow along with event updates at the Facebook listing and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram use #GoRedDC.

Five Greater Washington Region Volunteer Leaders Honored with American Heart Association Volunteer Awards

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The American Heart Association, the world’s leading voluntary health organization devoted to a world of longer, healthier lives relies on a core of people who are willing to give their time and energy to help enhance the quality of their communities. Recently the Eastern States region of the American Heart Association announced the honorees of … Read more

Kaiser Permanente’s Jill Feldon Named Chair of the 2021 Greater Washington Region Heart Walk

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The American Heart Association (AHA), the world’s leading voluntary health organization devoted to a world of longer, healthier lives, is excited to name Jill Feldon, vice president of Marketing, Communication and Community Relations for Kaiser Permanente in the Mid-Atlantic region, as chair of the AHA’s 2021 Greater Washington Region Heart Walk.  Feldon has been with … Read more

Organizations Collaborate to Help People Living with Type 2 Diabetes End Year on a High Note

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The American Heart Association and the American Diabetes Association have launched a campaign to educate communities across the US about prevention, management and treatment of type 2 diabetes.  Recently in the Greater Washington Region, Dr. Kwame Akoto a volunteer expert for Know Diabetes by Heart and a doctor of family medicine at Kaiser Permanente was interviewed by … Read more

The Greater Washington Region Heart Walk Stepped to Success Through Dedication

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The American Heart Association, the leading voluntary health organization focused on heart

Members of the DC Retro Jumpers take part in the Heart Walk Digital Experience

and brain health for all, embraced the new normal, taking its iconic Greater Washington Region Heart Walk, traditionally held on the National Mall, online for a digital experience. Held over the weekend of November 6-8 participants were able to complete all activities from anywhere – their homes and neighborhoods – and many shared their experience on the Heart Walk Facebook event page.

This year, the campaign saw higher participation than 2019 in spite of the challenges brought on by the pandemic. A total of 470 teams & 3,149 walkers registered from 90 contributing organizations, with a record percentage of participants raising funds. Registrants were also actively engaged in the 30-Day Step Challenge presented by Sheehy Auto Stores. Nearly one third of participants downloaded the Heart Walk app and logged 88,847,052 steps which is the equivalent of over 42,000 miles. That’s nearly two laps around the equator! The Heart Walk’s Executives with Heart campaign, comprised of local leaders who pledge to donate or raise $5,000, also broke Greater Washington region records. Over 100 people took part in the challenge, raising over $500,000. To date, the Greater Washington Heart Walk has raised $1.6 million in support of the American Heart Association.

The Walk broke yet another local record this year, with the Greater Washington Region’s first

Heart Challenge Chair, Tim Gillis from KPMG shared his #DCHeartWalk

ever $100,000 individual fundraiser, Heart Challenge Chair Tim Gillis, Managing Partner at KPMG. “I am so proud that people truly came together from all over the world to walk, give and celebrate life,” said Gillis. “The overall campaign’s success is attributed to our participants, donors and sponsors who continue to carry the torch and show up. The American Heart Association needs us more than ever and I am heartened by the dedication and generosity of so many.” Gillis shattered local records, raising over $137K himself and his company, KPMG, was the #1 fundraising organization.

Throughout the month familiar elements of the Walk were shared through social including step challenges, youth-focused activities, and the Zumba warm-up. The Opening Ceremonies was posted on Facebook to kick off the weekend and featured long-time host WUSA9’s Howard Bernstein, 2020 Heart Challenge Chair Gillis, incoming 2021 Heart Challenge Chair Jill Feldon of Kaiser Permanente, Cedric Sims of Booz Allen Hamilton, Mac Curtis of Perspecta and recording artist Tulani who performed the National Anthem. Seven people were awarded Lifestyle Change Awards presented by Kaiser Permanente for the modifications they have made to live longer, healthier lives. One honoree was host Bernstein, who has taken up bike riding and changed his eating habits.

“We are thrilled with the level of engagement and enthusiasm from our walkers, sponsors and Executive Leadership Team,” said Soula Antoniou, Executive Director of the American Heart Association. “It is truly a testament to our incredible volunteers, like Tim [Gillis], who worked tirelessly to champion our cause. I want to say thank you to everyone who took the steps in making this year’s Walk a huge success.”

The Bling It on Fitness team on their #DCHeartWalk

Funds raised by the annual campaign lead to medical breakthroughs, transform healthcare systems, support stronger public health policy, and much more. The campaign is only possible with support of our local Greater Washington Heart Walk sponsors, including KPMG, Sheehy Auto Stores, Blake Real Estate, Kaiser Permanente, Leidos, Pernix Consulting, Perspecta, Digital Realty, GEICO, Phone2Action, Booz Allen Hamilton, Korn Ferry, Novant Health and Executive Mosaic.

Donations can still be made in support of the event at www.GreaterWashingtonHeartWalk.org or text GWDCHW to 71777.

Double Your Impact Through December 31 with Harrity & Harrity LLP

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Harrity & Harrity LLP to Match up to $100,000 for the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association (AHA), the world’s leading voluntary health organization

Double your impact with Harrity & Harrity LLP

devoted to a world of longer, healthier lives is excited to announce that through December 31 all donations and registration fees up to $100,000 will be doubled for its Lawyers Have Heart 10K Race, 5K Run and Walk. Made possible through the generosity of race sponsor Harrity & Harrity LLP to promote increased around Giving Tuesday, a global movement to support charities. Donations to Lawyers Have Heart benefit the Association to further its work for a world of longer, healthier lives and can help fast track research and train front-line workers.

“As a person who had his life saved by the AHA’s science, this cause is beyond important to me and my family,” said John Harrity, Harrity & Harrity LLP’s Managing Partner. “Our firm wanted to give in a big way and we hope this inspires others to do the same.  Millions of people are counting on the American Heart Association for science-based information, health resources, community programs and patient support. They need us to be generous now more than ever.”

There are many ways to take part in the matching opportunity:

  • Visit LawyersHaveHeartDC.org and make a donation in support of a world of longer, healthier lives.
  • Consider an opportunity for your  company to sponsor the event by contacting maher@heart.org.
  • Register for the 2021 race through December 31 and the fee will count as a donation that will be matched by Harrity & Harrity LLP.
  • Give through your mobile phone. Text RUNLHH to 41444.

“Planning is moving forward for a huge 2021 event and we hope to once again attract participants from around the world,” said Harrity. “There was an incredible response when we took the 2020 event to a digital experience where 3,000 participants ran and walked their courses all over the United States, England, Croatia, Spain, South Africa, Japan and more. We will definitely plan to keep a virtual component moving forward so anyone can take part from anywhere in the world.”

Harrity serves as a co-chair for the 2021 event along with his firm’s Controller Sandra Maxey and American University Washington College of Law’s Associate Dean of Student Affairs, David Jaffe. Since 1991, the event has raised over $15.6 million, in support of vital research and programming to improve health and well-being across the Greater Washington Region.

“We are so thankful to Harrity & Harrity for their tremendous support that will build excitement,” said Soula Antoniou, Executive Director, American Heart Association. “This gift helps ensure the Association’s continued work with researchers, medical experts, hospitals, community leaders, businesses, families and more to improve health and well-being for all and to reduce the impact of the coronavirus.”

To learn more about the race and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.LawyersHaveHeartDC.org or email stephanie.maher@heart.org. Read more about John Harrity’s story of survival here. Follow the American Heart Association on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.   Engage online through the Lawyers Have Heart Facebook listing and use #RUNLHH.

 

Breaking News: First-of-Its-Kind Kids’ Meal Bill Passes in Prince George’s Co.

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Kids in Prince George’s County, Maryland are about to get healthier meals and drinks when they order from kids’ meals menus in the county.kids menu

On the afternoon of November 17, 2020, the Prince George’s County Council unanimously approved legislation that will make it easier for families and their children to choose healthier food and drink options when ordering from kids’ menus at county restaurants. The Prince George’s County Healthy Kids’ Meals Bill (CB-071) now awaits a signature from County Executive Angela Alsobrooks to be enacted into law.

“Policies like this can help improve outcomes and increase the opportunity to live a longer, healthier life,” said Dr. Federico Asch, president of the board of directors for the American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region and a cardiologist at MedStar Washington Hospital Center. “By passing this comprehensive bill, Prince George’s County is a national leader in promoting equitable health policy.”

The legislation is the first of its kind in the country to include healthier comprehensive options for both food and drinks on children’s menu items. It will make water, milk and 100% fruit or vegetable juice the default beverage options for all kids’ meals served at Prince George’s County restaurants. It will also ensure the food options in kids’ meals promote health by designating limits on calories, sugar, salt and fat for items on their kids’ menus. Families would still be able to order other beverage and food items upon request.

“The majority of kids’ menu items are purchased for children under the age of 12, a critical time in a child’s development of taste preferences,” said Shawn McIntosh, the executive director of Sugar Free Kids Maryland. “This bill passage helps make the healthy option the easy choice. Our goal at Sugar Free Kids Maryland is simple – we want all kids to live long, healthy, productive lives.”

Councilmember Sydney J. Harrison sponsored the legislation, which was supported by a diverse coalition led by Sugar Free Kids Maryland, the Prince George’s Food Equity Council, the American Heart Association and Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI). Voices for Healthy Kids provided some of the much-needed funding and technical assistance to make this a policy success.

“Together, we’ve scored a win for the community, created a model for other cities and states, and signaled to the restaurant industry that it’s time to stop pushing soda and unhealthy meals on little kids,” said CSPI policy associate Sara Ribakove.

Follow this developing story online by using the hashtag #HealthyKidsPGC.

(Article reprinted from Voices for Healthy Kids and Sugar Free Kids MD)

AHA President: The best way forward requires bridging disciplines, people, places

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The challenges facing our world are many – from timely concerns such as the coronavirus pandemic and the renewed emphasis it has placed on the need to dismantle structural racism to the ongoing challenges of treating and beating the top two killers around the globe: heart disease and stroke. As president of the American Heart … Read more

Listening to Our Community to Advance Equitable Health for All

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“It is critical” – said Kofi Essel, from Children’s National Hospital when talking about food

The American Heart Association convened a virtual listening session with critical community partners.

access.

“We need to reevaluate how we’re creating solutions” – said Kristy McCarron from the Metropolitan YMCA when talking about food security as well.

“We need to collaborate with other community organizations to make a change” – said Domonique Panton, from the Children’s National Health System when also talking about this topic.

These were some of the comments that we heard during the first of several focus group with key stakeholders to evaluate and receive feedback in order to create a 2020 Community health assessment. This assessment will serve to provide information about the community and what different stakeholders feel like are areas the organization should focus on. By providing that information, the American Heart Association will be able to focus their activities and efforts based on what the community thinks is important.

The American Heart Association cares about the community and wants to shape programming designed to improve the health and wellbeing of all members of the Greater Washington Region community. In September, the Association convened a community partners via Zoom to listen to input about different health priorities like tobacco cessation, food access, chronic disease prevention, women’s health and more. The first meeting was comprised of members from the FLiP initiative, which stands for Family Lifestyle Program, a DC-focused, clinical-community initiative that connects families to nutrition, physical activity, and community resources to support and maintain their health and wellbeing.  FLiP members represent a variety of organizations including Children’s National Health System, the Metropolitan YMCA, the Nationals Baseball Academy, and the American Heart Association. The foundation of all the member organizations core mission is the critical need to sustainable health for our community.

Valuable insight was shared that will help to shape priorities and create the action plan around programming for the American Heart Association in the Greater Washington Region. The group created a productive environment where participants felt able to share their opinions and observations about the health equity work, and how the American Heart Association can continue to serve the community.

This focus group was one of several online meetings to be held to gather information from a variety of stakeholders. We look forward to our future listening sessions to gain a greater understanding of the real barriers people across the DC metro region face that prevents them from achieving better health and wellbeing.

If you are interested, in learning more about joining a virtual stakeholder feedback session to learn about our overall priorities and share your insights on where we should focus our efforts, locally, to have the greatest impact please contact Erica McIntyre at erica.mcintyre@heart.org.  We see these discussions as a first step towards a new period of collaboration and an opportunity.

Contributed by: Jeffrey Fraatz, Health Strategies Intern, American Heart Association

A New Collaboration with Prince George’s Community College brings Heart Health to the Classroom

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The American Heart Association recently joined Prince George’s Community College for Prince George’s Community College Foundation’s Food Distribution Day along with Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Washington.  The AHA’s Greater Washington Region board chair, Barbara Humpton of Siemens USA and Dr. Falecia D. Williams, president of Prince George’s Community College also announced the newly formed … Read more

Lawyers Have Heart 10K Race, 5K Run and Walk Announce Dream Team of Volunteer Leaders

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The American Heart Association (AHA), the world’s leading voluntary health organization devoted to a world of longer, healthier lives is proud to announce its volunteer leadership for the 2021 Lawyers Have Heart 10K Race, 5K Run and Walk.  Since 1991, the event has raised over $15.6 million, in support of vital research and programming to improve health and well-being across the Greater Washington Region.

Sandy Maxey, Controller, Harrity & Harrity LLP

Stepping up again are last year’s Co-Chairs Harrity & Harrity LLP’s Managing Partner John Harrity and Controller Sandra Maxey. They will be joined by American University Washington College of Law’s Associate Dean of Student Affairs, David Jaffe.

“I am thrilled to help lead this year’s event. As a runner and
supporter of the work of the American Heart Association, this race is of tremendous significance to me,” said Jaffe. “The funds raised by this event are needed, now, more than ever.  Millions of people are counting on the AHA for science-based information, health resources, community programs and patient support. So it is up to Sandy, John, the Executive Leadership Team, the AHA team and me to host the biggest Lawyers Have Heart yet in 2021!”

David Jaffe, Associate Dean of Student Affairs, American University Washington College of Law

Lawyers Have Heart began in 1991 as a running and walking event for the legal community and has evolved into a staple on DC’s running calendar attracting runners and walkers of all levels of experience and from all walks of life. This event annually attracts over 6500 runners and walkers to participate on a challenging course through the District.

2020 marked the 30th Anniversary of Lawyers Have Heart and presented unprecedented challenges due to COVID-19. With health and safety of participants, volunteers, donors, and staff as the top priority, the decision was made to mark the 30th Anniversary as a reimagined virtual run and walk with 30 days of challenges leading up to race weekend.

Through the dedication of the event’s Executive Leadership Team, Team Captains and the running community at large, this past year knew no boundaries and encouraged runners and walkers from all over the world to join the fun. Over 3,000 participants ran and walked their courses all over the United States, England, Croatia, Spain, South Africa, Japan, Turkey, Chile and more. Hosted on the event’s Facebook page and event listing, the race experienced high engagement and had an extensive reach of 1.3 million people with participants sharing their #RUNLHH experience through videos, comments and pictures on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

John Harrity, Managing Partner, Harrity & Harrity LLP

“I was humbled by the incredible response we received when we took the event to a digital experience last year. Even my 90-year-old aunt was able to participate,” said Harrity. “We are excited and hopeful that we can take what we learned from last year and continue to transform the race. Hopefully we can see people in person on the starting line but we will continue to encourage everyone to participate from wherever they are.”

The American Heart Association continues to work with researchers, medical experts, hospitals, community leaders, businesses, families and more to improve health and well-being for all and to reduce the impact of the coronavirus. “We were made for this moment and that is a reflection of the relentless support and dedication of our volunteers, donors and sponsors,” said Soula Antoniou, Executive Director, American Heart Association. “With Sandy, John and David leading the charge, this will be a big year for 31st Lawyers Have Heart campaign.”

To learn more about the race and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.LawyersHaveHeartDC.org.

FEEL the RUSH of the RIDE with our brand new CycleNation experience!

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This year’s CycleNation experience will allow you to feel the rush of the ride from wherever you from September 21-28! Get more details, sign up, start fundraising and/or donate to your friends at www.CycleNation.org/DC! With your donations, YOU help fund lifesaving science. Science that can prevent a stroke. Put scientific advances into doctors’ hands. And … Read more

Intern with Heart: Carly Ohlrich

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Carly Ohlrich spent the summer interning for the Health Strategies team of the American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region. Due to the pandemic, Carly supported the team remotely from her home. She assisted on projects around Community Impact, Advocacy and Communications. The reason I wanted to join the American Heart Association this summer was much … Read more

The Sum of All Parts is Better Health: Partnership Provides 800 Virginia Families with Healthy Food

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EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator grant recipient 412 Food Rescue partners with food retailers, nonprofit organizations and volunteers ( affectionately called food rescue heroes) to bring healthy food directly to those experiencing food insecurity. Since receiving funding through the American Heart Association, the organization has been able to expand its footprint beyond Pennsylvania to our … Read more

American Heart Association and Neighborhood Health Team Up to Help Thousands of Northern Virginia Residents Control their Blood Pressure

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This past January, the American Heart Association began a partnership with Neighborhood

Blood Pressure being monitoredHealth around blood pressure awareness and control for its patients. The mission of Neighborhood Health is to improve health and advance health equity across Northern Virginia in Alexandria, Arlington, and Fairfax by providing high quality primary care regardless of ability to pay. Within the system there are 12 clinics that service residents in need with services ranging from family practice, internal medicine, dental care and behavioral health.

American Heart Association staff and volunteers provided Target BP and blood pressure management training to all Neighborhood Health medical providers and medical assistants. The trainings were led by Past Board President, cardiologist Dr. Roquell Wyche.  Twenty blood pressure monitors were provided and the Association established a BP Loaner program for each clinic. Neighborhood Health clinics across Northern Virginia also integrated the Target BP algorithm into their practice and used posters and resources in their exam rooms to educate patients. The system reaches around 28,500 patients annually.

Seeing an increased need during the pandemic crisis, the Association also provided Neighborhood Health with 50 additional BP monitors, 100 thermometers and 8 contactless thermometers to serve their prenatal and hypertensive patients during the pandemic.

“Healthcare costs and access are especially difficult during this unprecedented time, making our ability to work with Neighborhood Health on blood pressure control critical,” said Erica McIntyre, Community Impact Director for the American Heart Association. “The need is great for under-resourced residents of Northern Virginia where 21% of all residents  – 1 in 5 – suffer from hypertension.”

When healthcare providers apply the most up-to-date evidence-based treatment guidelines, patient outcomes improve, and lives can be saved. Programs like the Association’s Target BP help facilitate continuous quality improvement and support for outpatient organizations’ efforts. Learn more about blood pressure control and find resources here.

Greater Washington Region Heart Walk to be Transformed into a Weekend Celebration

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The Greater Washington Region Heart Walk is getting re-imagined for 2020 to be the biggest one yet!

Heart Walk Promo Video
Heart Walk Promotional Video

With the recent coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic keeping more Americans at home, the American Heart Association, the leading voluntary health organization focused on heart and brain health for all, is embracing the new normal, creating an enhanced experience and moving its iconic Greater Washington Region Heart Walk online.

The Greater Washington Heart Walk will be held over the weekend of November 6-8 and will feature fun, daily activities promoting exercise, healthy eating, and other heart-healthy habits. Participants will be able to complete all activities from anywhere they are – their homes and neighborhoods and can share their experience on the Heart Walk Facebook event page.

“We’re all looking for ways to connect with others, stay active and stay encouraged,” said Tim

Tim Gillis, 2020 Heart Walk Chair and Managing Partner, KPMG LLP.

Gillis, Managing Partner, Washington Metro Area, KPMG LLP and chair of the 2020 Heart Walk. “This new format allows everyone to continue to have fun and support our lifesaving mission, while adapting to spending more time at home. We are grateful for the support from our participants and sponsors and can’t wait to see how everyone makes the Greater Washington Region Heart Walk their own.”

The American Heart Association will engage participants by hosting fun fitness challenges, sharing stories that showcases how they are improving the health in local communities and much more.  Participating companies and individuals  will be challenged to boost the physical and emotional health of their employees through a friendly, activity – and fundraising- competition.

Continued Gillis, “As a community who supports the American Heart Association, we can still come together by walking, running, jumping, biking, or any way one can imagine being active, at any time. We want this to be the celebration of life!”

Funds raised by the campaign lead to medical breakthroughs, transform healthcare systems, support stronger public health policy, and much more.

The Heart Walk is part of the American Heart Association’s Heart Challenge, a suite of events that aim to improve the health and well-being of individuals and the community. Besides the Heart Walk, the Heart Challenge includes CycleNation, a team-based, stationary bike event, and Field Day, a day for companies to come together to participate in fun physical and mental challenges.

To register and start fundraising today, visit GreaterWashingtonHeartWalk.org.  From there, participants can stay up to date by downloading the Heart Walk mobile app and encourage friends and family to join in via email or social media.

The Greater Washington Heart Walk local sponsors include KPMG and Sheehy Auto Stores.

Working on Wellness in Faith-Based Communities with the EmPOWERED & Well Healthier Church Challenge

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The EmPOWERED and Well Healthier Church Challenge was a 12-week pilot program designed to support and expand the ongoing health and wellness activities of black women and their faith-based communities. It was established by the American Heart Association, with the help of its sponsor, WW International, Inc. (Weight Watchers Reimagined). Together the American Heart Association … Read more

Victory for Active Transportation and a Healthier Community in Montgomery County

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In a victory for active transportation and a healthier community, on May 21 the Montgomery County Council approved approximately $30 million to support bicycle and pedestrian programs in their 2021 capital budget.

The American Heart Association has supported equitable allocation of bike and walking infrastructure in the County since 2017 when revision of the Bicycle Master Plan began.

The Council heard our You’re the Cure advocates and responded; bike infrastructure must not only enable recreation to promote heart health, but also allow those without access to other transportation options to walk or bike safely to places they need to go. Now, more than ever.

A critical component of the Master Plan is prioritization of health equity. The Plan’s Goal 3 is to: “Provide equal access to low-stress bicycling for all members of the community.” And emphasizes that: “Equal access to low-stress bicycling for all members of the community, including people with incomes below the average median income for Montgomery County, is a critical aspect of a world-class bicycling network.”

https://montgomeryplanning.org/planning/transportation/bicycle-planning/bicycle-master-plan/

This critical health equity language resulted from the leadership and passionate advocacy of the American Heart Association and You’re the Cure advocates who ensured their Councilmembers knew that country residents value that all residents have equitable access to bike paths and trails, and that all residents, regardless of their income or where they live, can actively and safely get to where they need to go.

The American Heart Association thanks the Montgomery County Council, including Councilmembers Hans Riemer, Tom Hucker, and Gabe Albornoz for their commitment to heart health and bike and pedestrian programs, especially during such challenging times. AHA and You’re the Cure advocates look forward to working with the County as projects are developed to expand biking and walking opportunities for all in the county!

American Heart Association Advocates Affect Sustainable Change for the Health of All Virginians

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Because of the dedication of AHA supporters and volunteers statewide, it was a landmark year of public policy achievements for cardiovascular health in the Commonwealth of Virginia. These successes demonstrate that constituents have the power to make significant change when they join in the fight against heart disease and stroke. “As a stroke survivor and … Read more

Investments in areas hit hard by COVID-19 are Critical to Improved Health Outcomes

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The American Heart Association’s Social Impact Fund Seeks Donors to Expand to the Greater Washington Region

The American Heart Association,  the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on

John Houston III and AHA Ambassadors

heart and brain health for all, seeks to explore new investment opportunities in the Greater Washington Region around organizations committed to breaking down social and economic barriers that prevent people from living healthy lives. Through its Social Impact Fund, the focus areas for investment include food and housing insecurity, access to health care and income equality. The Social Impact Fund will make investments into under-resourced communities – many being the hardest hit by COVID-19.

Populations in under-resourced communities are more likely to have underlying health conditions (like high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease and obesity), are more likely to work unstable or frontline jobs limiting their ability to socially distance themselves and are less likely to have access to quality healthcare.  For example, Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties, Maryland have suffered from the highest rate of infection of COVID-19 in Maryland, widely attributed to an abundance of frontline workers and underlying chronic health conditions. In the District of Columbia’s Wards 7 and 8, conditions like uncontrolled blood pressure, diabetes and obesity are in disproportionate numbers compared to the rest of the country. Differences in COVID-19 complications by race/ethnicity seem to be emerging and are an opportunity to address longstanding health inequities and increased burden on those with the greatest need.

As a result of a generous seed donation, the Association is actively seeking additional funders to bring the Social Impact Fund to the Greater Washington Region.

“Demand for organizations that could be supported through the Social Impact Fund has grown exponentially within fragile communities throughout the DC region,” said American Heart Association volunteer and Social Impact Fund supporter, John Houston III. “It is my hope that others will join us in the launch of this fund so that we can make real change for people particularly in those areas devastated by COVID-19.”

While significant advances have been made in cardiovascular disease prevention and treatment, health results are disparate across economic, racial and ethnic groups. According to the County Health Rankings, only 20% of a person’s overall health is determined by clinical medical care, while the rest is determined by social and economic factors, as well as physical environment. Approximately 50 million people in the United States are at higher risk for cardiovascular disease because they lack the most basic needs — healthy food, clean air and drinking water, quality education, employment and housing.[1]

The Social Impact Fund is currently operating in Chicago, Boston, New York, San Francisco, Oakland and Flint, Michigan. To expand investment capital and scale the AHA Social Impact Fund’s innovative approach to addressing the health disparities exacerbated by COVID-19 in the Greater Washington Region, contact Yvette Mingo at Yvette.mingo@heart.org.

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 nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

 

The AHA Launches 2nd Webinar in a Series Discussing Impact of COVID-19 on Communities of Color

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Long before the pandemic, systemic challenges have contributed to disparities that impede some people from living long, healthy lives. Your ZIP code should not determine how long you live, but it does. Social factors, which are shaped by the distribution of money, power, and resources, as well as immigration status, occupation, and language preference, have … Read more

ICYMI: Eastern States Launched a Webinar Series on the Impact of COVID-19 on Communities of Color

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On May 15, the Eastern States Community Impact team launched the first webinar of a series designed to discuss the impact of COVID-19 in communities of color. The webinar was offered to health equity leaders nationwide and was attended by approximately 1,035 participants. During the webinar, implications of COVID-19 from the perspective of economics, education, … Read more

30 Day Challenge in Support of the Lawyers Have Heart 10K Race, 5K Run and Walk has Kicked off!

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Will you share your #RUNLHH? Run and walk with us from wherever you are!

Save the Date to #RUNLHH!

Thousands of people across America are participating in a month of physical activity, culminating in a virtual running and walking event on June 12-14.  The 30-day challenge is encouraging people to stay active and raising crucial funds for the American Heart Association.

Keeping active is central to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.  The American Heart Association has embraced the new normal of social distancing, and created a month of challenges that can be undertaken whilst abiding by the current restrictions, designed to help people stay active during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

The final challenge will be a virtual running and walking event, where participants will run the 10K or 5K or join a fun walk, completing their route individually and sharing their time on a virtual leader board.  Participants are encouraged to share their experience on social media by using the hashtag #RUNLHH and follow along on social media.

The run and the 30-day challenge are all part of AHA’s annual Lawyers Have Heart event.  Lawyers Have Heart began in 1991 as a running and walking event for the legal community, and has evolved into a staple on DC’s running calendar attracting runners and walkers of all levels of experience and from all walks of life.

Event Co-Chair, John Harrity of Harrity and Harrity LLP said, “This event has always been about encouraging heart-healthy lifestyles and raising vital funds for education and research.  Now faced with new challenges, here’s a great way to keep active for a month, and for runners and walkers of all ages and abilities to “virtually” come together in support of the American Heart Association.  By going virtual, we look forward to welcoming teams and families from around the world!”

The 30-day challenge has a new challenge each day to keep people active, and keep them motivated to live healthier lives whilst living under stay at home orders.  Whether it’s walking 10,000 steps, doing a 30 second plank or preparing a new healthy recipe for dinner, there are new ideas each day leading up to the virtual run.  In addition, there are tips to help raise money for AHA’s life-saving research and education programs.

Harrity adds, “As a survivor myself, the AHA’s mission is more important now than ever. Millions of people are counting on them for science-based information, health resources, community programs and patient support. We need to rally together to raise money for this critical cause.”

Since 1991, the event has raised over $15 million, with this year’s event aiming to raise $1.4 million.  Co-Chairs of the event are Harrity & Harrity LLP’s  Managing Partner, John Harrity, and Controller, Sandra Maxey.

To register for the 30-day challenge, donate, and find out more information, check out the event’s website for all the details www.lawyershaveheartdc.org.

Follow along through the Facebook page www.facebook.com/lawyershaveheart10k, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/LHH10K and on Instagram at www.instagram.com/heartofgwr.  Share your experience using #RUNLHH and #MoveMore!

Virtual Hole In One event celebrates the American Heart Associations’ Golf Tournament

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The Hole In One event on May 11 brought together the American Heart Association’s golfing supporters for a fun evening of golf tips and trivia, in a celebration of AHA’s work in the Greater Washington Region. The event was hosted by Rich Sawchak, Chief Financial Officer of Novetta Solutions and the Chair of the American … Read more

The AHA Convenes Health Equity Leaders to Discuss Impact of COVID-19 on Communities of Color

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Long before the coronavirus impacted how we live, work, and play, systemic challenges contributed to disparities that impede some people from living long, healthy lives. Your ZIP code should not determine how long you live, but it does. Social factors, which are shaped by the distribution of money, power, and resources, have been mostly responsible … Read more

COVID-19: The Impact on Communities of Color

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Updated May 29, 2020 Long before the coronavirus impacted how we live, work, and play, systemic challenges contributed to disparities that impede some people from living long, healthy lives. Your ZIP code should not determine how long you live, but it does. Social factors, which are shaped by the distribution of money, power, and resources, … Read more

Stay Healthy and Happy During School Closures with our Virtual Challenge

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The American Heart Association’s Kids Heart Challenge launches virtual program to prioritize mental and physical health.   Calling all Schools in the Greater Washington Region: With the stress of schools across the country shifting to remote learning or ending early, it’s more important than ever to maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle. That’s why the American Heart … Read more

American Heart Association Announces 2020 Greater Washington Region Heart Walk Chair

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The American Heart Association is pleased to announce that Tim Gillis, managing partner of the Washington Metro Area offices of U.S. audit, tax, and advisory firm KPMG LLP, has been named Chair of the 2020 Greater Washington Region Heart Walk.

Tim Gillis, 2020 Heart Walk Chair and Managing Partner, KPMG LLP.

The Greater Washington Region Heart Walk is a fun and meaningful way to celebrate heart and stroke survivors, raise lifesaving funds and encourage physical activity.

“Now, more than ever, we’re all looking for ways to connect with others, stay active and stay encouraged. So when the American Heart Association reached out and asked KPMG to chair the 2020 Heart Walk, I immediately thought about our culture of wellness and our commitment to community impact,” said Gillis. “Moreover, heart health depends on physical activity, stress management, mindfulness, and nutrition—the very same tools we all rely on to keep us strong and well in any health landscape.”

The Heart Walk will take place on Saturday, November 7, 2020 on the National Mall in Washington, DC. A celebration of life, the event draws 10,000 people and promotes physical activity and heart-healthy living for the whole family. The Walk is a non-competitive, three-mile or one-mile walk and is open to both corporate and community teams as well as individuals. Event festivities include Zumba, a Kids Zone, a Top Dog Parade, activity stations, and fun for the entire family.

“Tim and KPMG have been tremendous supporters over the years. I appreciate his leadership and applaud his commitment to our mission and lifesaving work,” said Greater Washington Region American Heart Association Executive Director Soula Antoniou.

To register, visit www.GreaterWashingtonHeartWalk.org or call 703-248-1715.

From there, participants can stay up to date by downloading the Heart Walk mobile app and encourage friends and family to join in via e-mail or on social media. Participants are encouraged to share on social media using  #DCHeartWalk.

The funds raised from the Greater Washington Region Heart Walk go towards research, advocacy, CPR training and to promote better health.

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 nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

About KPMG LLP: KPMG is one of the world’s leading professional services firms, providing innovative business solutions and audit, tax, and advisory services to many of the world’s largest and most prestigious organizations.

KPMG is widely recognized for being a great place to work and build a career. Our people share a sense of purpose in the work we do, and a strong commitment to community service, inclusion and diversity, and eradicating childhood illiteracy.

KPMG LLP is the independent U.S. member firm of KPMG International Cooperative (“KPMG International”). KPMG International’s independent member firms have 207,000 professionals working in 153 countries and territories. Learn more at www.kpmg.com/us.

American Heart Association and Primary Care Coalition partner to provide emergency relief for hypertension patients in Montgomery County

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The American Heart Association is deeply concerned about the public health crisis facing our country. Our top priority regarding coronavirus (COVID-19) is the health and well-being of all individuals and their families today and in the future, in every community, everywhere. Millions of people are counting on us for science-based information, health resources, community programs and patient support. We are continuing our mission-critical work in these challenging times and we know that people with cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension (high blood pressure), are more likely to be seriously impacted by the virus than others.

In the Greater Washington Region, we are all-in to control high blood pressure.  Low income, uninsured and poorly controlled hypertension patients often rely on in-clinic or in-pharmacy blood pressure monitors.  With social distancing and stay at home orders in effect, it is clear that alternative options are necessary.  We are proud to partner with the Primary Care Coalition to assist these patients in Montgomery County, MD, where  36% of the population has high blood pressure, above the national average.

Together, the Primary Care Coalition and the American Heart Association are getting blood pressure monitors to hypertension patients, which will allow them to measure their blood pressure from home.  We are also actively working to connect health care providers with technical assistance in using telemedicine systems and providing access to science based COVID-19 and blood pressure management information for both patients and providers.

The Primary Care Coalition administers Montgomery Cares, a public-private partnership that engages the ten independent safety-net clinics, the local health department, and the hospital systems serving Montgomery County in a coordinated effort to deliver high-quality and affordable health care to low-income and uninsured county residents. Many patients of the Montgomery Cares system live medically and socially complex lives. Maintaining ongoing connection to their primary care providers and access to treatment during this time is important for their health outcomes.

Barbara Eldridge, the Vice President of Quality and Clinical Programs at the Primary Care Coalition.

In the short term, this partnership seeks to maintain these crucial healthcare engagements whilst stay at home orders are in place.  In addition, there is real potential for long term benefits.  “We want to create a culture of self-measured blood pressure monitoring”, Barbara Eldridge, the Vice President of Quality and Clinical Programs at the Primary Care Coalition.  “When it comes to measuring blood pressure, those who are empowered to do this at home on a regular basis have a much better chance of lowering their blood pressure compared to those who rely only on periodic measurement at the doctor’s office.”

By quickly identifying areas of need and devising practical solutions to address these needs, partnerships such as this will help us to continue to support those in our most vulnerable populations during this public health crisis.

Target: BP™ is a national initiative formed by the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American Medical Association (AMA) in response to the high prevalence of uncontrolled blood pressure (BP). Target: BP helps health care organizations and care teams, at no cost, improve BP control rates through an evidence-based quality improvement program and recognizes organizations committed to improving BP control.

Programs like these are the result of generous support from the community. To be a part of the Greater Washington Region’s Blood Pressure initiatives and to make an impact in your community, email Erica.mcintyre@heart.org. To learn more about Target: BP visit: targetbp.org

Local organizations step it up on National Walking Day for the Virtual Step Challenge!

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The American Heart Association continues to be a relentless force for a world of longer,

The DMV Links had over 167 participants who walked over 1 million steps!

healthier lives during these unprecedented times.  With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we have been promoting new ways to adopt healthy lifestyles and moving more whilst abiding by social distancing and stay at home orders.

 

To mark National Walking Day on April 1, we challenged companies in the Greater Washington Region to take up our Virtual Step Challenge, locally presented

by Sheehy Auto Stores.  Employees from 28 companies walked throughout the day (whilst social distancing!), sending in their step count to go towards their company’s total and sharing their steps on social media using #MoveMoreDC.

We had a fantastic response from participating companies:

  • “Now more than ever, folks need to feel a sense of (virtual) community, engagement and purpose. This walk gave a sense of normalcy that is missing right now. I’ve gotten so many thank you’s from teammates around the country for coordinating this – something so simple which, at a time like this, has so much meaning and impact.” – Michelle Bailey, DMV Links Team Captain-Arlington (VA) Chapter
  • This was a really fun thing to do “together.”” – Jen Brill, One Digital
  • “Thank you so much for including us, our staff really enjoyed it. I hope there will be more during this time of social distancing.” – Shay Martello, CTSI
  • “We had a great time doing this.” – Katie Greattie, SIA

The DMV Links recorded the highest company total during the day, with their participants combining to walk over a million steps.  PS Digital and Kaiser Permanente walked the second most steps and third. Across all participants, our amazing local supporters walked for over 2.5 million steps totalling approximately 1,250 miles!

As well as a great way to mark National Walking Day, it was also a fantastic start to AHA’s Move More Month which runs throughout April.  We have lots of tips on how you can get active this month whilst keeping to the current guidelines in place – find out more here!  https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/getting-active/how-to-move-more-anytime-anywhere

 

  

Get those Steps in with the National Walking Day Virtual Step Challenge!

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While the coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to change our schedules and routines, we are undeterred in our mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. The health and well-being of our community, our families, friends and loved ones near and far are paramount – today, tomorrow and always. With many workers practicing … Read more

Clear Eyes. Full Hearts. Can’t Lose: #DCHeartBall is the Main Event of Heart Month

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Clear Eyes. Full Hearts. Can’t Lose: #DCHeartBall is the Main Event of Heart Month Sports greats featured as part of the American Heart Association’s relentless pursuit of health and well-being The Greater Washington Heart Ball (#DCHeartBall) is back at the Mandarin Oriental hotel. As American Heart Month comes to an end, the American Heart Association … Read more

Lawyers Have Heart Participants are Encouraged to #KeepTheBeat

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Lawyers Have Heart is the premier athletic philanthropic event led by the greater Washington DC legal community The American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region.  Now in its 30th year, the race will bring together over 6,000 runners and walkers on June on June 13th. The event Co-Chairs  are heart attack survivor John Harrity and Sandra Maxey of Harrity & Harrity, LLP. On February 1, they will launch a campaign to raise awareness and support for the American Heart Association with a unique challenge, dubbed the  “Keep the Beat Challenge” in alignment with the start of American Heart Month.

The challenge kicks off with a video featuring Harrity performing an original rap about the disease, after which he challenged several others to “keep the beat going.” The challenge is intended to encourage communities nationwide to focus on heart health, educate individuals on preventing heart disease, and generate support for the American Heart Association.

The cause is particularly meaningful to Harrity, who, despite showing no risk factors for heart disease, suffered a near fatal “widow-maker” heart attack in 2016.

“I was in the best shape of my life, and I experienced the worst type of heart attack you can have. Hours later, at the hospital, my situation got gravely worse. I experienced bleeding into my lungs, which sent me into respiratory distress, and eventually led to multiple organ failure. During that first day in the hospital, my wife was told more than a half of a dozen times that the chances of me surviving were very slim. My cardiologist said the odds of me making it through those first few weeks were a million to one,” said Harrity.

Harrity was fortunately with friends, who quickly called 9-1-1 and administered CPR before the ambulance rushed him, unconscious, to the hospital.  Harrity spent three weeks in a coma and an additional five weeks of grueling recovery in an intensive care unit in Virginia. Despite his doctor’s unfavorable odds, Harrity survived the attack and made an incredible recovery. His unlikely rehabilitation compelled him to implement a giving back initiative at his firm, with a focus on the crucial work of the American Heart Association.

“From the second I woke up and understood what had happened, I was laser focused on two things: getting back to 100% and ensuring that I don’t waste my heart attack. If I just went back to my old way of life, then this traumatic experience would have been for nothing. I have no intention of wasting my heart attack. During the following five weeks, as I lay in

intensive care regaining my ability to speak and move, my twin brother and I had many conversations. We knew we needed to do more, we needed to be purpose driven.

“When you participate in the Keep the Beat Challenge, you are supporting the American Heart Association, and serving as a beacon for others to support our lifesaving mission in a unique and powerful way! Thank you for joining us in the fight against heart disease; the number one killer of all Americans. Together, we are a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives!” said Soula Antoniou, Executive Director of the American Heart Association.

To participate, upload a video to social media of yourself keeping a beat in honor of American Heart Month and challenge at least three others to do the same. Tag and follow the Keep the Beat Challenge on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter and the hashtags #KeeptheBeat and #Harrity4Charity to watch challenge videos and learn more about the campaign.

To hear John’s whole story visit the Heart.org Campaign Page.

Patients, consumers, and health policy experts advocate at Virginia State Capitol for access to high-quality health insurance coverage, pre-existing conditions protections for all Virginians

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 Healthy Market VA, a coalition of organizations representing thousands of Virginians with chronic diseases, small business owners, and older adults spoke out on Tuesday, January 28 at the Virginia State Capitol in Richmond to ensure that preserving life-saving patient protections and strengthening Virginia’s health insurance marketplace are top priorities for lawmakers this session.

State lawmakers are considering expanding access to health plans that are not thorough enough and put people in danger of not having the insurance coverage they need if they get sick. This could lead to high medical debt, the spread of poor-quality insurance options, and increased illness and death.

Patients shared stories with legislators about how they’ve managed their chronic conditions and why it’s important for Virginia to ensure that pre-existing conditions are protected. Avis Thomas of Richmond, Virginia is mother of four, a kidney transplant recipient, and has suffered life-long health issues. Her children and husband also suffer from chronic health issues. “Nobody signs up to have a pre-existing condition. With all the stressors of life, I can’t seem to shake the hardship of finding affordable and comprehensive healthcare,” she shared.

A local small business owner, Tierra Henderson also of Richmond, shared her story and discussed how current policies impact small business health coverage. “If I am unable to afford comprehensive health plans for my employees, I cannot attract a qualified workforce,” Henderson said.

Physician advocates talked about the need for access to care for Virginia’s most vulnerable populations. “As a physician, I see the importance of affordable, high-quality insurance for every person and family, including those with pre-existing conditions, small business owners, and older adults.”  says advocate Dr. Nina Solenski from Albemarle County and member of the American Heart Association’s Virginia Advocacy Committee.

Even if you couldn’t make it to the Capitol, you can still take action. Contact your legislators and tell them to support affordable high quality health care access for all.   Access to health care should put patients first. By supporting these issues, we can ensure that affordable, high quality health care is available for all Virginians.  Follow along on social media with #DefendPreEx and #HealthyMarketVA.

Healthy Market VA works to ensure access to affordable, high-quality healthcare coverage for everyone by strengthening Virginia’s health insurance marketplace. It is made up of health organizations including: American Heart Association, AARP Virginia, Arthritis Foundation, VPLC, The Commonwealth Institute, Leukemia Lymphoma Society, American Lung Association, National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Small Business Majority, Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, Hemophilia Foundation and the Hemophilia Association of the Capital Area.

 Check out the Virginia News Service story: https://www.publicnewsservice.org/2020-01-30/health-issues/va-lawmakers-urged-to-swap-aca-for-less-expensive-state-plan/a69052-1

Greater Washington Region Youth Mobilize to End Vaping

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The American Heart Association, Greater Washington Region is proud to partner with The Teen Age Group (TAG) of Greater Suburban Maryland’s Jack & Jill of America Inc.  to raise awareness on the dangers of vaping through the #QuitLying campaign and the launch of their own PSA campaign, “No Smoke.” The “No Smoke” Vaping PSA Release … Read more

The American Heart Association and Health Organizations Respond to Governor Northam’s 2021 Budget Tobacco Tax Increase

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“The American Heart Association, American Lung Association, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, Medical Society of Virginia, and Tobacco21.org appreciate the Governor including an increase in funding for tobacco cessation and prevention programs, seeking funding for reinsurance, and including a tobacco tax in his proposed 2021 budget. However, the proposed cigarette tax increase of $0.30 is insignificant and far too low to protect youth from becoming addicted to tobacco and not the best mechanism to fully fund reinsurance.

“Virginia currently ranks 50th in the nation on cigarette taxes and is in desperate need of a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to stop the tobacco industry from targeting our youth. The Governor’s proposed tax increase would still fall far below the national average state tax on cigarettes, which $1.81.

“We urge the Virginia Legislature to increase the tobacco tax by at least $1.00 and levy a comparable wholesale tax on all tobacco products including electronic cigarettes and heated- products. The evidence is overwhelming that increasing the tobacco tax by at least $1.00 would prevent thousands of Virginia children from never taking up smoking, encourage thousands of adults to stop smoking, save millions in health care costs, and provide resources to allow the state to more appropriately fund tobacco cessation and prevention.

“A higher tobacco tax would allow the state to both fund reinsurance and devote more funds to cessation. An increase of $1.50 could generate over $430 million for these important programs.

“The proposed $0.066 per milliliter e-cigarette tax is too small to create any public health benefits and instead should be a percentage tax applied at wholesale. With the proposed tax, it would be roughly 4 cents increase per e-cigarette pod. The amount is nominal and does not serve as a deterrent to prevent and protect youth from tobacco.

“Virginia youth and families deserve more protections from the tobacco industry. The current youth vaping epidemic is threatening the health of Virginia children―permanent and immediate solutions to protect them from a lifetime of tobacco and nicotine addiction are needed now.

“The time is now to protect our youth from the harmful effects of tobacco and nicotine addiction. We look forward to working closely with the Governor and General Assembly on a permanent and adequate solution to this public health emergency.”

 

American Heart Association talks about Women and Heart Disease at the National Diversity Women’s Business Leadership Conference

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The American Heart Association hosted a panel at the Diversity Women’s Business Leadership Conference on Thursday, November 14th discussing women and heart disease. The event was held at the Gaylord Resort in National Harbor, Maryland. Panel Moderator: Pamela Garmon Johnson, the Vice President of Health Equity & National Partnerships from the American Heart Association. Panelists: … Read more

American Heart Association Greater Washington Region Hosts Culinary and Food Immersion Experience

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Washington, D.C.- The American Heart Association Greater Washington Region hosted a culinary and food immersion experience on October 17th at the Washington Nationals Youth Baseball Training Academy in Washington, D.C. This unique experience enabled community members and donors to see a sample of the Family Lifestyle Program. This program strives to increase the health of … Read more

New American Heart Association Blood Pressure Kiosk placed in Brentwood area of Washington, D.C.

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(Washington, D.C.)- The Greater Washington Region American Heart Association and Unity Health Care hosted a ribbon cutting event and opening of a blood pressure kiosk on October 28, 2019. The new blood pressure kiosk is located at Unity Health Care-Brentwood Health Center in Washington, D.C.  Over half a million patients are seen through the Unity … Read more

Empowering Entrepreneurs for healthier communities: EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator Finale Event

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We are thrilled to introduce the 2019 EmPOWERED to Serve National Business Accelerator grant recipients!  The October 17th event was hosted in Washington, D.C. at the National Museum of African American History and Culture. The top nine candidates presented their innovative concepts and ideas in a shark-tank style program at the event for a chance … Read more

American Heart Association Endorses Washington, D.C. Sugary Drink Tax Legislation to Promote Health Equity

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Washington, D.C., October 8, 2019 –The American Heart Association (AHA) strongly supports legislation introduced today by D.C. Councilmembers Brianne Nadeau, Mary Cheh, Trayon White, David Grosso, Brandon Todd, Charles Allen, Elissa Silverman, Chairman Phil Mendelson and Anita Bonds that would levy a 1.5 cents per ounce tax on sugary drinks. The revenue raised from the … Read more

Public Health Organizations Respond to Virginia Governor’s Comments on E-Cigarettes

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The American Heart Association, American Lung Association, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, Tobacco21.org, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, and Tobacco Free Alliance of Virginia urge the Governor to take immediate action to restrict the sale of all flavored tobacco products including menthol cigarettes; and levy a $1.80 comparable tax on all tobacco products including electronic … Read more

Make Kids’ Meals Healthier in Washington, DC

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Last month we introduced you to Lara, an 11 year-old Washington, DC girl who’s become an incredible advocate for healthy eating and drinking following her own health journey. Among the many ways to help kids like Lara make healthier choices is to support the DC Council’s legislation that would make healthier beverages like water, milk, … Read more

Greater Washington Region AHA teams up with Whitman-Walker Health to host Healthy Living Workshop

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Research suggests that LGBTQ individuals face many health disparities that ultimately lead to a higher incidence of cardiovascular diseases. The American Heart Association is excited to work with community organizations to target these populations in need and help all Americans live their healthiest lives. Whitman-Walker Health in Washington, DC shares the same vision as it … Read more

Helping Kids Make Healthy Choices: Young DC Resident Advocates for Healthy Diets

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Meet Lara. She is a healthy, outgoing and smart 11-year-old Washington, DC native who loves ballet, dancing and singing. She is also an American Heart Association ambassador and advocate for kids making healthy food and drink choices. A year ago, at a doctor’s appointment, her blood work showed that her triglyceride levels were unusually high … Read more

DC families learn heart healthy habits from the new Healthy Lifestyles Network

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WASHINGTON DC – Educating community members on simple lifestyle changes to be heart healthy is an essential part of our mission to help others live their longest, healthiest lives. To do just this, the Greater Washington Region American Heart Association (AHA) has teamed up with the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington (YMCA) and Children’s National Medical … Read more

Making an impact on wheels: The Greater Washington Region AHA works with Lyft to combat food deserts

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WASHINGTON DC- The Greater Washington Region American Heart Association is excited to announce its new collaboration with Lyft and DC Greens to support the Lyft Grocery Access Program. A huge barrier to food access is being able to get to places with healthy food options. This program will help solve this issue. The program started … Read more

AHA & DC Primary Care Coalition Team Up for Blood Pressure Trainings

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Washington, DC- The Greater Washington Region American Heart Association teamed up with DC Primary Care Coalition, a non-profit health equity and advocacy organization, to conduct an inaugural training on the latest evidence of effective clinical care pathways for blood pressure control on March 6th. The training also went over how to successfully implement the M.A.P. … Read more

ASRC Federal Leads the 2018 Greater Washington Heart Walk to a Record-Breaking Year

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Washington DC- Mark Gray, President and CEO of ASRC Federal and 2018 Heart Walk Chair, helps raise $2.458 Million in support of the American Heart Association’s Mission. The American Heart Association announced that is has raised a record-breaking amount of $2.458M from the Heart Walk on November 3, 2018. The funds raised support the American … Read more

Keeping Maryland Smoke Free: National Harbor Cigar Lounge Proposal Defeated

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Prince George’s County, MD- Following pressure by the American Heart Association and our national and state partners, on January 24, 2019 MGM Resorts withdrew their application to the Prince George’s County, Maryland Planning Department for a “special exception” to open a cigar lounge at their National Harbor venue. MGM previously had submitted a proposal for … Read more

Five HBCUs Advance in the American Heart Association Urban Health Accelerator-HBCU Healthy Communities Challenge

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Community environments play an important role in health outcomes. People living just 5 miles apart can in some cases have a difference in life expectancy of more than 20 years due to factors such as economic stability, education, societal influences and health care.  Through the American Heart Association’s 2019 EmPOWERED to Serve Urban Health Accelerator-HBCU pilot, schools have an … Read more

Custom Ink Supports the American Heart Association in Life is Why We Give Campaign

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Every 40 seconds, someone in America has a stroke or a heart attack. Less than one third of high school students get the recommended amount of daily physical activity and 30 million people in the United States have no easy access to healthy food . The American Heart Association, the world’s leading voluntary organization focused … Read more

Baseball Mascots Knock it Out of the Park and Go Red Too!

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On the first Friday of every February, which is designated as American Heart Month, the nation comes together,igniting a wave of red from coast to coast. From landmarks to news anchors and neighborhoods to online communities; this annual groundswell unites millions of people for a common goal: the eradication of heart disease and stroke. Baseball … Read more

Heart Healthy 2018 Policy Accomplishments in the Greater Washington Region

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Washington, DC- Thanks to the dedication, passion, and hard work of You’re the Cure volunteers, 2018 was another successful year of public policy accomplishments for heart health in Greater Washington. You’re the Cure advocates were active in Washington, DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia to support, defend, and help pass legislation that will continue to make … Read more

Urban Health Accelerator – Historically Black Colleges (HCBU) Legacy Grant Opportunity

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The Empowered To Serve Urban Health Accelerator expands the work of American Heart Association in local communities as we seek to address social issues impacting the ability of individuals to attain the healthiest life possible. The Barbara Houston Urban Health Accelerator HBCU Legacy Grants: Made possible through the support of Mr. John Houston, III, the … Read more

Target: BP Highlighted Resources

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We are excited to begin highlighting resources for improving clinical care around blood pressure and cholesterol from around our networks each month.  Continue to check back for more updates and the latest news.   Action Needed: Submit Comments by 11/7 We must show the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) that the medical community … Read more

Primary Care Coalition Sites in Greater Washington Recognized for Target BP

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Greater Washington Region- On Friday October 26th the Greater Washington Region American Heart Association recognized the Primary Care Coalition (PCC) and their 11 Montgomery County Maryland clinical sites for Target BP recognition. PCC represents 50,000 diverse patients from clinics such as Mary’s Center, Chinese Culture and Community Service Center/Pan Asian Volunteer Health Clinic, and Muslim … Read more

Mission in Action: The Annual Greater Washington Heart Walk will take place on November 3, 2018

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Washington, D.C. – Join 12,000 walkers for the Greater Washington Region Heart Walk on November 3, 2018 to raise funds and support the American Heart Association’s mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. The Heart Walk is the American Heart Association’s premiere event for raising funds to save lives from … Read more

AHA Recognizes Companies in Forbes Magazine

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Imagine a healthier community for all, where heart diseases and stroke are no longer our leading killers, and every member of every community is able to achieve well-being supported by the places they live, learn, work, play, pray and heal. At the American Heart Association, we are dedicated to promoting health and well-being for all and have made it … Read more

Healthy Kids’ Meals Legislation Proposed in D.C. Council

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  Washington, D.C. – Washington, D.C. Councilmembers Brianne Nadeau and David Grosso introduced legislation this week that would promote healthier beverage choices for Kids’ Meals at restaurants in D.C. The Healthy Beverages for Kids’ Meal Act of 2018 would make healthy choices like water, milk and 100% fruit juice the default beverage option for all … Read more

American Heart Association Supports Car Free Day to Create Heart Healthy Habits in DC

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Washington, DC – The American Heart Association has teamed up with Commuter Connections and the American Lung Association to pledge to go car free or car-lite on Friday, September 21, and/or Saturday, September 22, 2018 to celebrate Car Free Day. Car Free Day is an annual event that encourages drivers to leave their cars at … Read more

Celebrating Pride Month in the Mid-Atlantic Affiliate

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The American Heart Association is celebrating LGBTQ Pride month this June by sharing resources and participating in different events across the country. Teri Arnold, Marketing and Communications Director for the Hampton Roads, Virginia region and Communications Officer for AHA’s Hearts With Pride Employee Resource Group, recently told her heart attack survivor story at the Baltimore … Read more

Target:BP Data Submission Closes

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About 103 million adults (nearly half) in the United States have high blood pressure. Research shows that high blood pressure is a contributing factor to major health conditions including heart attack, heart failure, stroke, kidney failure, and other health concerns. Research also shows that 45.9% of those with high blood pressure are not controlled, that’s … Read more

Celebrate National CPR and AED Awareness Week

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National CPR and AED Awareness Week – June 1– 7, 2018 – aims to raise awareness and increase the number of people who perform CPR in cardiac arrest emergencies. Each year, more than 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in the United States. About 90 percent of people who suffer out-of-hospital cardiac arrests die. When a person has a cardiac arrest, survival depends on immediately receiving CPR from someone nearby. Only about 46 … Read more

Advance Auto Parts joins area companies to raise life-saving funds

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The American Heart Association, the world’s leading voluntary health organization devoted to fighting cardiovascular disease and stroke, has enlisted the support of corporations in raising funds for the cause. When consumers visit Advance Auto Parts from May 16 – June 16, they will have the opportunity to give to the American Heart Association via the … Read more

Mid-Atlantic Heart and Stroke Summit – Call For 2019 Presenters

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The Mid-Atlantic Heart and Stroke Quality Summit is a week-long event that includes educational opportunities in the areas of Heart Failure, Acute Coronary Syndrome, Cardiac Arrest, Atrial Fibrillation, and Stroke. In addition, the Summit provides day and evening events to network and celebrate achievements with peers from across the region, featuring an EMS Recognition Luncheon and … Read more

Mid-Atlantic Affiliate Hosts Quality Heart and Stroke Summit

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The American Heart Association – Mid-Atlantic Affiliate hosted the 2nd Annual Heart & Stroke Quality Summit in Raleigh, NC, April 23 – 27, bringing together healthcare professionals from across the region to learn from top-quality care heart and stroke experts. Online presentation slides and photos are available for viewing. Applications to present at the 2019 MAA … Read more

Kroger Raises $93,311 for the American Heart Association

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The American Heart Association, the world’s leading voluntary health organization devoted to fighting cardiovascular disease and stroke, thanks Kroger Stores for their support of Life is Why We Give. After a successful campaign in its 122 stores across the Mid-Atlantic, Kroger raised $93,311 for the American Heart Association. “The American Heart Association is committed to … Read more

2018 Mid-Atlantic Heart & Stroke Quality Summit

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Registration is now open for the 2018 Mid-Atlantic Heart & Stroke Quality Summit.  The MAA Quality and Systems Improvement team will host this week-long event April 23-27, 2018 in Raleigh, NC.  The Summit will include educational opportunities in the areas of Heart Failure, Acute Coronary Syndrome, Atrial Fibrillation, Resuscitation and Stroke. The target audience for … Read more

American Heart Association Announces 2018 Greater Washington Region Heart Walk Chair

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The American Heart Association is pleased to announce that Mark Gray, President and Chief Executive Officer at ASRC Federal, has been named Chair of the 2018 Greater Washington Region Heart Walk. Gray leads a family of companies under ASRC Federal with employees dispersed across 40 states. Since joining the company in 2014, Gray has directed … Read more

Scientific Sessions

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The American Heart Association 2017 Scientific Sessions were held on November 11–15 in Anaheim, California. This incredible, five-day event attracted thousands of doctors, scientists, researchers, investigators, and other healthcare professionals from around the globe who came together to discuss new science to reduce the impact of cardiovascular disease. Attendees built their calendars around this meeting because … Read more

Save the Date! 2018 Mid-Atlantic Heart & Stroke Quality Summit

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Registration for the 2018 Mid-Atlantic Heart & Stroke Quality Summit will open in early January. The conference is being held in Raleigh, NC during the week of April 23-27, 2018 at the Hilton Garden Inn Crabtree Valley Hotel. The Summit is a week-long event that will include educational opportunities in the areas of Heart Failure, … Read more

The American Heart Association hosts inaugural summit on social determinants of health; addresses barriers and solutions to healthy living and wellbeing in urban communities

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EmPOWERED To Serve™ Urban Business Storytelling Competition identifies viable solutions and names three winners to implement concepts in local communities DALLAS, October 19, 2017 — The American Heart Association, the world’s leading voluntary organization dedicated to building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke, hosted its inaugural EmPOWERED To Serve™ Summit in Washington, D.C. … Read more

Creating Change starts with you: An intern’s perspective on the EmPOWERED To Serve Summit By: Demetrius Colombero

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In the shadow of the Capitol Building, The American Heart Association (AHA) hosted the first of its kind, EmPOWERED To Serve Summit at the Gallaudet University in the Kellogg Conference Center in Washington, DC.  The two-day summit brought together a variety of people from the corporate, community and health-care fields to talk about how AHA … Read more

Greater Washington Region companies achieve recognition for workplace health from American Heart Association

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Scientific, evidenced-based instrument rates, recognizes workplace health programs and workforce heart health (October 23, 2017) – The 2017 results of the American Heart Association Workplace Health Achievement Index were announced today. In the Greater Washington Region, 9 companies were recognized for taking significant steps tobuild a culture of health in the workplace. The American Heart … Read more

American Heart Association Announces 2017 Greater Washington Region Heart Walk Chair

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(Arlington, VA) – The American Heart Association is happy to announce that Erich Sanchack, senior vice president and general manager at CenturyLink. has been named chair of the 2017 Greater Washington Region Heart Walk. Sanchack joined CenturyLink in October with more than 20 years of industry experience and after more than 12 years with Lockheed … Read more

AHA Highlights Impact2020 Sponsors in Forbes’ Centennial Issue

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The Centennial Issue of Forbes Magazine, which hits stands 9.28.17, features a full-page list of sponsors that have committed to the mission of the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Mid-Atlantic Affiliate through the year 2020.  Highlighting these sponsors in this unique way is a small token of appreciation for their generous investment in our mission for multiple years at … Read more

Leadership Announced for the 28th Annual Lawyers Have Heart

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Leadership Announced for the 28th Annual Lawyers Have Heart 10K Run & 5K Run & Fun Walk Event goal set to raise over $1M in support of the American Heart Association’s Mission (Washington, DC, 09, 13, 2017) — The American Heart Association, the world’s leading voluntary health organization devoted to fighting cardiovascular disease, is excited … Read more

Save the Date: 2018 Mid-Atlantic Heart & Stroke Summit

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Save the Date! The Mid-Atlantic Quality Team will be hosting the 2018 Mid-Atlantic Heart & Stroke Quality Summit in Raleigh, NC and are now accepting oral presenter submissions. The conference will be held during the week of April 23-27, 2018 and will include educational opportunities in the areas of Heart Failure, Acute Coronary Syndrome, Cardiac … Read more

Hospitals Recognized in US News & World Report

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The American Heart Association and American Stroke Association is honored to recognize a record number of hospitals in the 2017 edition of U.S. News & World Report’s America’s Best Hospitals. The awarded hospitals have exhibited unfaltering commitment to following guidelines shown to improve patient outcomes. See the nationwide hospitals recognized by the American Heart Association/American … Read more

Federal Lobby Day

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On June 26-27, more than 330 American Heart Association volunteers and staff from 46 states trekked to Washington, D.C. as part of the biennial You’re the Cure on the Hill to advocate for the protection of health care coverage, federal research support, and key legislation that will benefit Americans with cardiovascular disease (CVD). Heart disease and stroke … Read more

Patient Support Network is Here to Help

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Facing recovery after a stroke or heart disease diagnosis can be scary, but connecting with others going through similar journeys can help. The American Heart Association/American Stroke Association offers a wide range of resources, materials and interactive tools to help you manage your condition and improve your cardiovascular health. The Support Network offers an online … Read more

Mid-Atlantic Heart and Stroke Quality Summit

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The Mid-Atlantic Quality Team hosted the Inaugural Heart & Stroke Quality Summit in Raleigh, NC during the week of April 24-28, 2017. Over 450 healthcare professionals participated in the week-long event that included educational opportunities in the areas of Heart Failure, Acute Coronary Syndrome, Atrial Fibrillation, Resuscitation and Stroke. In addition, the summit offered day … Read more

Get With The Guidelines®-AFIB, Available at No Cost for 2017

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The American Heart Association is extending the offer to participate in Get With The Guidelines®-AFIB, the newest addition to the American Heart Association’s quality improvement programs, at no cost for 2017. AHA will cover the hospital’s participation fee for the Get With The Guidelines®-AFIB Patient Management Tool (including the ablation layer, if desired). The annual … Read more

MAA becomes first AHA Affiliate to pass CPR legislation in all states!

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We are thrilled to announce that Washington, D.C., joins 34 states in requiring CPR training to graduate high school, making the Mid-Atlantic Affiliate the first in the country to be covered by this life-saving legislation! Nearly 3,000 students graduating each year from Washington, D.C., public and charter schools will now be trained in Hands-Only CPR. … Read more