Local executive drives First Coast Heart Challenge Campaign
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., June 18, 2025 — Reed Hammond, chief executive officer at HCA Florida Memorial Hospital, is joining forces with the American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, to bolster the health of the First Coast community.
Hammond has assumed the role of 2025 First Coast Heart Challenge™ Chairperson. In his position, he will encourage local organizations, companies, employees and members of the community to participate in Heart Challenge™ initiatives like: Heart Walk®, Hard Hats with Heart, Field Day and Executives with Heart.
“Without the American Heart Association challenging itself each and every day to reduce the incidence of heart disease and spending countless hours spreading awareness about the signs and symptoms of stroke, we wouldn’t be where we are today: Treating heart and brain health care with multiple avenues to address chronic and complex cardiovascular diseases,” said Hammond.
The First Coast Heart Walk is the American Heart Association’s largest community-facing initiative that raises critical funds to advance lifesaving research, increase CPR education and training and drive equitable health. The walk will be held Saturday, October 4 at the Jacksonville Fairgrounds. The event’s festival area will open at 7:30 a.m., and the walk will begin at 9 a.m.
The Executives with Heart initiative, which culminates on June 30, has been led by Chairperson Vince McCormack, president of Perdue Office Interiors. The campaign encourages local executives to leverage their networks to raise funds and make an impact on the Association’s mission.
Hard Hats with Heart is an industry-specific initiative to improve the cardiovascular health of those working in the construction industry on the First Coast. The campaign’s focus is to integrate health, well-being and prevention solutions into the culture of the industry. This year’s Hard Hats with Heart campaign was led by Co-Chairpersons Grayson Avery, vice president and regional manager of Charles Perry Partners, Inc. and James Smith, vice president of Lockton Companies.
Lastly, the Field Day workplace initiative motivates employees to participate in games and fundraising challenges to foster connections and take a moment to unplug from work.
“We are so thrilled to have leaders like Reed propelling our work here on the First Coast,” said Kristina Massfeller, senior Heart Walk director for the American Heart Association, First Coast. “The Heart Challenge campaign is engaging companies, supporting employee wellness and making a real impact on our community’s health.”
For more information about Heart Challenge™ or to get your company involved, contact Kristina Massfeller, senior Heart Walk director, or visit Jacksonville FL | Heart Challenge.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Emma Richards: Emma.richards@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
