Heart Walk generates thousands of dollars

With an ever-growing focus on cardiovascular disease in the United States, is it any wonder the American Heart Association's annual Heart Walk generates thousands of local dollars in the fight against heart disease and stroke?

The 2015 walk, which took place March 7 inside the Osage Centre in Cape Girardeau, raised $56,000 for the cause -- $1,382 more than last year's event. It has become the organization's signature fundraiser in the Southeast Missouri region.

More than 400 people walked 24 laps each around the centre's gymnasium this time around, to clock the miles it would take to arrive at the latest fundraising total.

One participant, Robert Grogg, was recognized with the association's 2015 Lifestyle Change Award for turning his health around. Exactly a year ago to the date of this year's Heart Walk, Grogg went from being scheduled for heart surgery to dropping 70 pounds and bicycling everyday, Missourian reporter Savanna Maue wrote.

However, not everyone is as driven or dedicated as Grogg, who also faithfully attends cardiac rehabilitation sessions every week.

In the U.S. alone, nearly 84 million adults suffer from cardiovascular disease, according to information from the AHA.

This spectrum of diseases includes coronary heart disease, heart failure, stroke and high blood pressure, most of which are caused by negative lifestyle choices such as smoking, high fat intake and lack of physical activity.

It's no wonder the AHA has created a walking event not only to raise money for research and prevention, but also to spread awareness as well. Our hearts go out to the loved ones and survivors who help propel the walk each year.