Spokane, Wash., Sat. Sept. 27, 2025 — More than 300 people gathered at the Spokane Convention Center for the return of the Washington Heart and Stroke Walk on Sat. Sept. 27. Red was the color of the day as company and community teams walked to celebrate heart disease and stroke survivors plus raise critical funds for the American Heart Association. The event also aimed to increase community awareness of bystander CPR and confidence to act in cardiac arrest emergencies.
“The Heart and Stroke Walk is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we come together,” said Todd J. Czartoski, M.D., executive vice president and chief physician officer, MultiCare Health System and volunteer chairperson of the Washington Heart and Stroke Walk. “By supporting this year-round initiative, we’re not just raising funds—we’re equipping more people with lifesaving skills and making Spokane 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.”
To date, the Washington Heart and Stroke Walk has raised over $1.1 million toward its fundraising goal of $1.6 million with one event in Seattle on Oct. 11 remaining. Donations further the American Heart Association’s lifesaving mission including enhancing CPR training accessibility, bolstering bystander preparedness and increasing funding for vital research.
“It felt great to be back in Spokane walking alongside the American Heart Association’s many supporters,” said Whitney Meidl, executive director, American Heart Association, Washington. “Heart disease and stroke remain the leading killer in Washington and today gave us a collective opportunity to honor survivors and remember those we have lost. By working together, we will change the future of health and be the progress that ensures longer, healthier lives for all.”
The Washington Heart and Stroke Walk is sponsored by MultiCare Health System, Delta Dental of Washington and Providence Health Plan. To make a donation or learn more, visit WashingtonHeartWalk.org.
Additional Resources:
- Multimedia is available on the right column of release.
- Learn more about the American Heart Association’s work in Washington at heart.org/Washington.
- Read in Spanish
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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. In Washington, visit heart.org/Washington, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram or X.
For Media Inquiries:
Valerie Koch: valerie.koch@heart.org
Lily Gordon: lily.gordon@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
