Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death in Central Massachusetts, and Jay Cyr, senior vice president for peri-operative and procedural services at UMass Memorial Medical Center, is working with the American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, to change that.
Cyr has been named chairperson of the 2024 Central Massachusetts Heart and Stroke Walk, a campaign focused on engaging local companies, their employees, and members of the community to join the fight against heart disease and stroke.
“The American Heart Association is a pillar in championing cardiovascular health throughout Central Massachusetts,” said Cyr. “Beyond funding research and education initiatives, they spearhead a comprehensive community education program on hands-only CPR, turning bystanders into lifesavers one student, teacher and family member at a time.”
As chair, Cyr is leading a team of executives to recruit companies and organizations to take part in the walk, which will be held at the College of the Holy Cross on Saturday, June 8. The leadership team and supporting organizations will raise funds for the American Heart Association while leading action-oriented conversations about employee health, corporate engagement, community health and community transformation.
Also serving on the Heart and Stroke Walk Executive Leadership Team are Meg Coffin, CEO, The Center for Living & Working; Stephanie Costello, senior director of cardiovascular care, UMass Memorial Health; Tamara Cullen, graduate medical education, Saint Vincent Hospital; Maureen Spaulding, foundation manager, Digital Federal Credit Union; and Helena Stamatakis, community relations manager, Worcester Bravehearts.
“We deeply appreciate Jay’s dedication to fighting heart disease and stroke and his years of coordinating massive, local hands-only CPR trainings,” said Elizabeth L.B. Greene, chairperson of the American Heart Association’s Board of Directors in Central Massachusetts. “With Jay’s volunteer leadership, the Central Massachusetts Heart and Stroke Walk is leveraging employee engagement and corporate fundraising to maximize the American Heart Association’s local impact. Together, we have the power to save lives in our community.”
Cyr is a longtime volunteer for the American Heart Association in Central Massachusetts, having previously chaired multiple fundraising campaigns and serving on its local Board of Directors. He has been a key figure at UMass Memorial Medical Center since 1987, making significant contributions throughout his tenure.
Beyond his professional achievements, Cyr has fostered a positive work environment and facilitated professional growth through internal coaching programs. He holds an MBA from Nichols College, an M.S. in nursing management from UMass Graduate School of Nursing, and a B.S.N. from the University of Texas Health Science Center. He is also certified by the International Coaching Federation and the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching.
Heart disease and stroke are largely preventable. How you eat, move and manage stress impacts your well-being, physically and mentally. The Heart and Stroke Walk provides resources, tools and activities to support both mental and physical well-being for employers and employees.
For more information about the Central Massachusetts Heart and Stroke Walk or to get your company involved, contact Sabrina Webb, development director, at [email protected] or visit CentralMAHeartWalk.org.