Heart Walk planned Oct. 28

Whether making deals or cutting costs, businesses know that what happens today can shape tomorrow. That's why local companies will take steps toward stronger, healthier lives at the American Heart Association's annual Heart Walk at 1 p.m. on Oct. 28 at the Fly Arts Center on South Main Street.

Participants are raising money to fund heart disease and stroke research and educational programs in Bedford County. Organizers hope to raise $40,000 in 2007, topping the $33,000 raised last year.

More than 150 individuals and many company teams will take part in the non-competitive two-mile walk. Teams from Bemis Flexible Packaging, First Community Bank, Merle Norman, Peoples Bank, Jostens, Keller Williams and Atmos Energy are raising money to defeat diseases that affect their employees and families.

"We have many local residents who are survivors of heart disease or stroke," said Heart Walk chair Kathy Young, who works with Bemis. "Having friends and family affected by these diseases is a strong motivator for our company to participate in the Heart Walk. It reminds us that heart disease or stroke can happen to any one of us and emphasizes the importance of our efforts in helping to save the lives of our co-workers, family and friends. "

During the event, participants who are heart disease or stroke survivors will wear red caps that read "Fighting Back."

This year's heart walk will be two miles, with a pace car from Neill-Sandler Toyota leading the way. A special costume contest with a $1 entry fee will be held for children ages 10 and under with first and second place winners. Also at the heart walk will be heart healthy food, a moon bounce, jump ropes, face painting, goodie bags for each walker and door prizes from Merle Norman, Colleen's Cottage, Jaci's Jewels, New Covenant Book Store, Curves and Precious Petals.

Local sponsors include Bedford County Medical Center, Bemis Flexible Packaging, First Community Bank, Wal-Mart Distribution, Keller Williams, Alcan Packaging, Atmos Energy and Josten's. Subway restaurants are the national presenting sponsor.

"It just makes sense for our company to be involved in the Heart Walk," said Heart Walk co-chair Cindi Loso. "During the months of the Heart Walk campaign, our employees work together to raise funds for this very important cause. Through these activities, I've noticed a boost in morale and camaraderie throughout our company. The fun we have at the Heart Walk and it is the reward for all our efforts."

This year, over a million and a half walkers at more than 600 locations nationwide will join the Heart Walk. Since the first Heart Walk in 1994, participants have raised almost $600 million.

American Heart Association-funded research has yielded or contributed to such important discoveries as CPR, life-extending drugs (including clot-busters), pacemakers, bypass surgery, the heart-lung machine and surgical techniques to repair heart defects.

Despite progress, heart disease and stroke continue to be major health threats. Not only are the personal costs staggering, but so are the financial costs. In 2006, the nation spent over $403 billion in indirect and direct costs on cardiovascular disease and stroke.

For information on how to participate, call Young at 680-4130, Loso at 684-5800 or visit walk.americanheart.org .