Thousands unite in Rochester to build a community of lifesavers
ROCHESTER, N.Y., June 7, 2025 — Nearly two thousand people gathered at the Rochester Heart Walk & Run on Saturday at Monroe Community College, raising more than $430,000 to further the American Heart Association’s lifesaving mission. Nine out of 10 people who suffer cardiac arrest outside the hospital don’t 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 Rochester Heart Walk & Run brought together heart disease and stroke survivors, as well as participants from dozens of local companies, to unite in the mission to save lives. Every walker who joined the Heart Walk & Run, every dollar donated, means more people trained in lifesaving CPR, more research and more lifesaving moments for everyone.
“The Heart Walk is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we come together,” said David Borkholder, professor emeritus at Rochester Institute of Technology and volunteer chairman of the Heart Walk & Run. “By supporting this year-round initiative, we’re not just raising funds—we’re equipping more people with lifesaving skills and making Rochester a stronger, healthier place. Our vision is for every home to be prepared to respond to a cardiac emergency, and we’re grateful to everyone who helped us take a big step toward that goal.”
The Rochester Heart Walk & Run is sponsored by Rochester Regional Health and more, including media sponsors Country 100.5 and News 10 NBC. To learn more, visit www.RochesterHeartWalk.org.
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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:
Kristy Smorol, communications director,
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
