More than four thousand Long Islanders are expected to join the American Heart Association’s Long Island Heart Walk on Sunday, September 20th to raise funds to fight heart disease and stroke, America’s No. 1 and No. 5 killers,. The annual event begins at 8:30 a.m. at Jones Beach, Field 5 in Wantagh, NY.
The non-competitive, three-mile walk includes teams of employees from local companies, along with friends and family members of all ages.
“For every hour of brisk walking, life expectancy may increase for some adults by two hours,” said Stephen Sipola Executive Vice President at Astoria Bank and Long Island and Chairman of the 2015 Long Island Heart Walk. “I look forward to working with Executive Leaders across Long Island to help raise awareness and funds for the American Heart Association to continue its mission to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.”
Heart Walk participants will experience three “communities” that feature relevant resources and activities.
This year’s Long Island Heart Walk will once again feature interactive and compelling life-changing information and activities including a Kidz Zone-featuring face painting, crafts, and games for kids and families, Eat Street-featuring heart healthy snacks before and after you walk, Team Photos-Grab everyone you’re walking with for a group picture! Mended Hearts, Red Caps & White Caps-All Heart Disease Survivors Receive a Red Cap! Stroke Survivors receive a White Cap!
This year we are honored to have Gabriella Lisboa, born with a congenital heart defect to serve as the 2015 Long Island Heart Walk Red Cape Ambassador, hoping to raise awareness for congenital heart defects and provide hope for other families.
Research has shown walking is the single most effective form of exercise to achieve heart health. The benefits of walking and moderate physical activity for as little as 30 minutes each day can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
The annual success of the Long Island Heart Walk is due in part to our national sponsor, Subway. Local sponsors include Astoria Bank, Voxx, TD Bank, Catholic Health Services, Winthrop University Hospital, Brookhaven Memorial Hospital, CohnReznick, Luxottica and Setton Farms. Local media sponsors are News 12 Long Island, WBAB 102.3-FM and WBLI 106.1-FM.
For more information about the Long Island Heart Walk taking place on Sunday, September 20th call the American Heart Association at 516-450-9104 or visit us at www.longislandheartwalk.org.
