OKLAHOMA CITY, May 29, 2025 – Oklahoma City area residents are encouraged to shake out their leg warmers and tease up their hair as the 2025 OKC Heart and Stroke Walk takes a step back in time with a totally rad 80s theme “Keeping the Beat.” Participants will lace up their sneakers and hit the pavement to support heart health in a fun and nostalgic way Saturday, May 31, at Bicentennial Park downtown.
Proceeds from the American Heart Association’s signature event aims to raise awareness and funds for heart disease and stroke research. From neon colors to classic 80s tunes, the walk will be a celebration of both health and retro style.
"We're excited to bring the community together for a day of fun, fitness and fundraising," says John Higginbotham, MidFirst Bank Oklahoma market and chairman of the walk. "The 80s theme adds an extra layer of excitement, and we can't wait to see everyone dressed up and ready to walk for a great cause."
Check-in begins at 8 a.m., followed by the walk at 9 a.m. This family-friendly event welcomes participants of all ages and fitness levels, and pets and strollers are encouraged.
Special recognition is given to heart and stroke survivors, as well as those who have lost loved ones to heart disease. One of those honored is 9-year-old Blair Sullivan of Durant, who was born with left heart syndrome (HLHS), a rare, severe congenital heart defect where the left side of the heart, including the aorta, aortic valve, left ventricle and mitral valve, doesn't develop properly. This underdevelopment prevents the heart from pumping enough blood to the body, leading to life-threatening complications.
Blair has had 12 heart surgeries, including one at 10 days old and another for a heart transplant at 5 1/2 months.
“She has faced several challenges, including two strokes during surgery but she is the toughest kid we know,” says her mom, Angela Sullivan.
Activities at the walk include hands-only CPR training, a crucial skill that can save lives in cardiac emergencies. This training is part of the American Heart Association's Nations of Lifesavers initiative, which aims to empower communities with the knowledge and confidence to act swiftly in cardiac emergencies. By mastering hands-only CPR, attendees will join a growing movement of lifesavers dedicated to improving survival rates and making a significant impact in their communities. The Association’s goal is to have at least one person in every household trained in CPR by the year 2030.
Registration for the OKC Heart and Stroke Walk is open now at OKCHeartWalk.org, and participants can sign up individually or as part of a team.
“Since its founding in 1924, the American Heart Association has successfully reduced deaths from cardiovascular diseases by 50%. However, the mission to save lives continues, as many still need help,” said Mark Fried, executive director of the American Heart Association-OKC. “By driving breakthroughs in science, policy and care, together, we can continue to advance health and transform lives every day.”
The walk is presented by MidFirst Bank with additional support from Devon. Media support is provided by KFOR and The Gayly.
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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
Cyd King: cyd.king@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
