AUSTIN, March 5, 2026— The American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association - the leading voluntary health organization focused on heart and brain health for all, invites Austin companies, communities, and individuals to stop the cycle of stroke by raising critical funds to further research and education through CycleNation.

As chairperson of CycleNation, Yvonne Cantu-Diaz, vice-president of finance with Comfort Systems, will lead a team of top Austin executives that will work to recruit companies and organizations to take part in the CycleNation movement. The efforts will culminate on May 13 at Assembly Hall where teams of six will ride to raise awareness and funds to further the work of the American Stroke Association and the American Heart Association.

“My family knows all too well the impact that heart disease can have,” said Cantu-Diaz. “My father suffered from heart disease most of my life – watching someone I hold in such high regard endure so much pain and so many complications was incredibly difficult. I have also witnessed close friends and family suffer strokes – many of them people you would never expect to be affected. This is why the CycleNation mission to raise funds and awareness for stroke and heart disease research is so important to me. Participating companies and organizations become part of something bigger. We’re not only making a significant impact on the overall health of our community through our fundraising efforts but also this initiative is designed to improve employee engagement, wellness and overall workplace health.”

Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in Travis County and the leading cause of serious, long-term disability. Each year approximately 800,000 people in the U.S. have a stroke. While ~80% of those who have a stroke will survive, the majority will remain with some degree of physical impairment or disability. Research shows that up to 80% of strokes may be prevented. Getting the recommended amount of physical activity is linked to a lower risk of stroke, as well as lower risk of diseases, improved mental health and cognitive function and lower risk of depression.

For more information about the Austin CycleNation campaign, visit here or contact amanda.lilly@heart.org.

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About the American Stroke Association

The American Stroke Association is a relentless force for a world with fewer strokes and longer, healthier lives. We team with millions of volunteers and donors to ensure equitable health and stroke care in all communities. We work to prevent, treat and beat stroke by funding innovative research, fighting for the public’s health, and providing lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based association was created in 1998 as a division of the American Heart Association. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-888-4STROKE or visit stroke.org. Follow us on Facebook and X.

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.   

Media Inquiries: 

Contact: Michael Vybiral; michael.vybiral@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org