Merced healthcare leader to serve as chairperson for 2025 Central Valley Heart and Stroke Walk

FRESNO, Calif., April 28, 2025 – The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, has named Dale Johns, FACHE, president and CEO of Dignity Health Mercy Medical Center, as the community volunteer chairperson for the 2025 Central Valley Heart and Stroke Walk. This annual event, accompanied by a fundraising campaign, aims to combat heart disease and stroke—two of the leading causes of death in both the U.S. and California. This year’s walk is scheduled to take place on Saturday, Oct. 25, at Tesoro Viejo in Madera.

 

"Serving the community lies at the heart of who I am and embodies the mission of Dignity Health," said Johns. "It is a privilege to support the American Heart Association in their relentless fight against heart disease and stroke, and I am inspired by the potential of the Central Valley Heart and Stroke Walk to make a lasting difference. Together, we are creating a future where everyone can access the resources, knowledge, and care needed to live their longest, healthiest lives."

 

Johns will be joined by fellow executives seeking to make an impact. The 2025 Central Valley Heart and Stroke Walk executive leadership team includes:

 

“The Heart and Stroke Walk is an incredible opportunity for the Central Valley to unite as one community, taking a stand against heart disease and stroke,” said Kelley Berry, executive director of the American Heart Association, Central Valley. “We deeply appreciate Dale’s unwavering expertise, passion, and commitment to our cause. It is through the dedication of exemplary leaders like him that we continue to save lives and bring hope to countless families.” 

 

Local teams have already started to form and commence fundraising. Participants can register for the event at CentralValleyHeartWalk.org. From there, they can create personal fundraising pages, download the Heart Walk mobile app, and encourage family and friends to join. Companies interested in participating can contact Megan Starr at megan.starr@heart.org.

 

Funds raised go toward the American Heart Association’s work to advance lifesaving research, education and health for all people. Locally in the Central Valley, the Association has helped expand access to CPR skills, ensured local heart and stroke patients are connected to the latest science-based treatments via its hospital programs, and supported community members managing high blood pressure with tools and resources for better blood pressure control. 

 

 

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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 the American Heart Association in the Central Valley on heart.org/northern-california, Facebook, Instagram, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. 

 

Lily Gordon: lily.gordon@heart.org 

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721) 

heart.org and stroke.org