Hundreds unite in Wilmington to build a community of lifesavers

WILMINGTON, Del., Sept. 8, 2025 — Hundreds of people came out despite the rain at the Wilmington Heart Walk on Sunday at Tubman Garrett Riverfront Park, to raise funds in support of the mission of the American Heart Association, a global force changing the future of health of all. Their commitment, even in challenging weather, was inspiring. Nine out of 10 people who suffer cardiac arrest outside the hospital do not survive — a sobering statistic that underscores the Heart Walk’s urgent call to action: fundraise, learn CPR and take action to save lives. 

In addition to raising critical funds, the Wilmington Heart Walk brought together heart disease and stroke survivors, as well as participants from local companies, to unite in the mission to save lives. Every walker who joined the Heart Walk, every dollar donated, means more people trained in CPR, more research and more lifesaving moments for everyone. 

“The Heart Walk gives Delaware residents and employees an extraordinary opportunity to address a critical issue in our community,” said James Murphy, executive director of the American Heart Association in Delaware. “Cardiac arrest can strike anyone, anywhere, and the difference between life and death often hinges on the quick actions of a bystander. Through the Heart Walk, we are not just raising funds; we are raising awareness, enhancing CPR training, stroke awareness and building a network of lifesavers throughout Delaware.”  

The event featured CPR demonstrations, a “Stomp Out Stress” station, a kid’s zone, a dog’s zone and a tribute wall, creating an energetic and family-friendly atmosphere. In total, the Wilmington Heart Walk raised $300,000 to support the American Heart Association’s mission of saving and improving lives. 

Here in Wilmington, the top companies based on fundraising included: 

“We envision a future where at least one person in every household knows CPR and the warning signs of a stroke,” said Dustin McFarland, chief executive officer of Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Delaware and chair of the 2025 Wilmington Heart Walk. “The impact of having a trained, confident lifesaver in every home across Delaware cannot be overstated. By joining the Heart Walk, companies are helping to turn our community from bystanders into lifesavers, ensuring that when a cardiac emergency occurs, there is someone ready to step in and save a life.” 

There is still time to make an impact. Community members who were unable to attend can continue to support the Wilmington Heart Walk by donating, learning CPR or spreading awareness about heart disease and stroke in the first state. To learn more, visit www.heart.org/wilmingtonwalk. 

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About the American Heart Association  

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.  

For Media Inquiries: 
Athena Klapak 
302-545-2158 
Athena.klapak@heart.org 

For Public Inquiries: 
1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721) 
heart.org and stroke.org  

heart.org and stroke.org