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Category: Non-Local News Releases Non-Local News Releases
Published: 21 May 2020 21 May 2020

ALBUQUERQUE - The New Mexico Heart Association announced its growing list of supporters for the upcoming statewide Virtual Heart Walk set to take place on Saturday, June 13, 2020. Notable supporters include Governor Michele Lujan Grisham, Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller, Santa Fe Mayor Alan Weber, the Santa Fe Board of County Commissioners, the City of Deming and the Village of Angel Fire to name a few.

"The outpouring of support has been heartening, to say the least," said New Mexico American Heart Association Executive Director Sherri Wells. "We are one-third of the way to attaining our pledged fundraising goal of $150,000 and we're optimistic that with these endorsements, the word will continue to get out and people will join us on June 13."

The annual fundraising walk generates resources for critical heart health awareness and education in the State of New Mexico. Upwards of 2,500 people usually participate in the 3-mile walk in Albuquerque. Still, this year's virtual effort means thousands more can join by walking their neighborhood and choosing a personalized route.

Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller issued a proclamation declaring June 13 as Heart Walk Day in the City of Albuquerque. Also, he appeared in a recent social media video encouraging people to join the walk. "We're doing everything we can during these Coronavirus-times to stay healthy, and part of that means our heart health," said Mayor Keller in the video. "Just because we have different stay at home orders in place, doesn't mean you can't go out for a great walk." Click to View Mayor Keller's Video

In response to the COVID-19 health crisis, the 2020 walk is now a virtual statewide effort with New Mexicans everywhere invited to take part.

"Heart health touches us all, and raising awareness is vital to saving lives," added Wells. "The more people joining in the walk means we can continue educating on the signs and effects of stroke and heart-related health issues."

This year's event will start with a kickoff video on the New Mexico Heart Walk Facebook page at 8 am, Saturday, June 13, followed by an official two-hour time window for participants to walk. All walkers are encouraged to post and share photos on their social media channels along with #NMHeartWalk.

Visit newmexicoheartwalk.org to sign up and learn about becoming a sponsor of this year's walk.

Heart disease is the No. 1 killer worldwide, and stroke ranks second globally. Founded in 1924, the American Heart Association is the nation's oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke.