Fresno, Calif., Sat. Oct. 25, 2025 — More than 1,500 people gathered at Tesoro Viejo for the Central Valley Heart and Stroke Walk on Sat. Oct. 25. 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 Dale Johns, president and chief executive officer of Dignity Health Mercy Medical Center, and volunteer chairperson of the Central Valley 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 the Central Valley 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 today.”

To date, the Central Valley Heart and Stroke Walk has raised over $242,000 toward its fundraising goal of $300,000. Donations further the American Heart Association’s lifesaving mission including enhancing CPR training accessibility, bolstering bystander preparedness and increasing funding for vital research. 

For many walkers the event is personal. Courtney Sherritt’s daughter LuluBelle was born with multiple congenital heart defects and is their inspiration to participate in the event. “My daughter will never be cured of heart disease,” said Sherritt. “Our family, and families like ours, rely on research and scientific advancements to allow our children to continue to grow and thrive. Central Valley Heart and Stroke Walk participants accelerate those advancements and we are grateful for their steps and donations.” 

There is still time to make a donation to the American Heart Association through the Central Valley Heart and Stroke Walk. Visit Central Valley Heart and Stroke Walk to make a gift.

Additional Resources:

  • Multimedia is available on the right column of release.
  • Learn more about the American Heart Association’s work in Northern California at heart.org/NorthernCalifornia. 

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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 Northern California, visit heart.org/NorthernCalifornia, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram or X.

For Media Inquiries:

Valerie Koch: valerie.koch@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org