Walkers of all ages gathered in red attire Sunday afternoon at the Allen County Fairgrounds for the Lima Heart Walk. The goal of the walk is to heighten awareness of heart disease and prevention.
Brenda Keller | For The Lima News
LIMA — There were red T-shirts, red caps and red headbands at the Allen County Fairgrounds on Sunday afternoon, as the Lima Heart Walk got under way. The passion was pulsating.
The goal of the walk, according to Katie Kwapich, communications director for the American Heart Association, “is to bring awareness of heart disease and prevention.” The walk closely coincides with World Stroke Day, commemorated on October 29.
Kwapich outlined the impact of cardiovascular disease by explaining that heart disease is the No. 1 killer in the United States and is the cause of death for one in every three women. She compared that statistic to the one in eight women who will acquire breast cancer in their lifetime.
While stroke is the No. 5 killer, according to Kwapich, it is the No. 1 cause of long-term disability. She emphasized that “prompt intervention improves recovery rates.”
For Adah Ellerbrock, chairperson of the Lima Heart Walk, this event is very personal. Heart disease has affected some of her family members, including a sister who died at age 5 from congenital heart disease. Due to advances made through research, Ellerbrock has a niece alive at age 27 with the same heart condition that claimed the life of Ellerbrock’s sister. Funds donated to the AHA support the life-saving research from which her niece has benefitted.
Kwapich said she was proud of the AHA’s Blood Pressure Initiative. Individuals noted to have elevated blood pressure readings are taught to monitor and manage their blood pressures to decrease the risk of stroke and heart attack.
The AHA conducts programs in businesses, such as Lunch and Learn programs and CPR classes. The organization also works with companies interested in purchasing automatic external defibrillators, devices used to help restore specific chaotic heart rhythms. The AHA provides guidance on the equipment needed, the importance of the devices, appropriate placement of the AEDs in the facility and funding assistance.
In school systems, the AHA promotes the Kids Heart Challenge by working with physical education teachers. Students are educated about the risk of vaping and tobacco use. The program also emphasizes the importance of a proper diet and regular exercise. Through a recent AHA grant, Shawnee Middle School obtained a frisbee golf course.
Maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, blood pressure management and tobacco avoidance are all ways to decrease the risk of heart disease. While genetics also plays a role, having an awareness of genetic risk factors can help individuals be more proactive.
Denise Martz, director of cardiovascular services at Mercy Health emphasized the importance of consistent exercise by quoting a cardiologist she knew, who says, “You take time to take your dog for a walk every day. Take the time to take your heart for a walk every day.”
