(WOOSTER, OH) Oct. 1, 2025 — Approximately 9 in 10 people who experience out-of-hospital cardiac arrest do not survive — but immediate CPR can double or even triple a person’s chances of survival. More than 650 people gathered at the Wayne County Heart Walk on Thursday, Sept. 25, at Kean Elementary and Kinney Field, raising more than $219,000 to further the lifesaving mission of the American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere.

In addition to raising critical funds, the Wayne County Heart Walk brought together heart disease and stroke survivors, participants from 31 local companies and other community members to learn Hands-Only CPR and build a community of lifesavers.

“The Heart Walk shows what Wayne County can do together,” said Jody Starcher, volunteer co-chair of the 2025 Wayne County Heart Walk. “It is exciting to see so many people from the community coming together for a common purpose and celebrating life.”

This year’s top fundraising companies included Wooster Community Hospital, J.M. Smucker Company and Briggs and Starr Wealth Management.

“It was an honor to co-chair this event and the turnout was awesome,” added Sue Smail, volunteer co-chair of the walk. “I thank the people of Wayne County for supporting the American Heart Association and this walk.”

The Wayne County Heart Walk is sponsored by platform sponsor Wooster Community Hospital / The Wooster Heart Group. The event’s mission sponsors included Aultman Health Foundation, Buehler’s Fresh Foods, the Cleveland Clinic, DASCO, Metals USA, Milk-Bone and Seaman Corporation. To register, donate or learn Hands-Only CPR, visit heart.org/wayneheartwalk.

Editor’s Note: Photos from the event can be downloaded using this link. Please give photo credit to the American Heart Association.

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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: 214-706-1173
Chelsea Caldwell: chelsea.caldwell@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org