SAN DIEGO, October 9, 2024 — Patrick Frias, MD, President and CEO of Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego, will lead the charge as the 2025 American Heart Association Heart & Stroke Walk Chair to build a community of lifesavers in San Diego. Under Dr. Frias’ leadership, top executives will unite to recruit companies and organizations to join the Heart & Stroke Walk, a year-round campaign aimed at raising funds to fight cardiovascular disease while equipping people with the education, knowledge and resources to act in the face of a cardiac emergency by learning Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).

The American Heart Association, celebrating 100 years of lifesaving service, has put a spotlight on CPR education as a critical element of the Heart & Stroke Walk campaign. Nine out of ten people who suffer cardiac arrest outside of a hospital die[1] yet immediate CPR can double or even triple the chances of survival[2]. Dr. Frias and his team of top executive leaders are committed to ensuring that more people in San Diego are prepared to respond effectively in these life-or-death situations.

"The Heart & Stroke Walk is a critically important opportunity to address a significant issue in our community," said Patrick Frias, MD, President and CEO of Rady Children’s Hospital. "Cardiac arrest can strike anyone, anywhere, and the difference between life and death often depends on the quick actions of a bystander. By participating in the Heart & Stroke Walk, we are not just raising funds; we are raising awareness, enhancing CPR training, and building a network of lifesavers throughout San Diego."

The Heart & Stroke Walk, active in over 220 cities nationwide, is more than a fundraiser—it’s a movement that drives corporate involvement in the fight against cardiovascular disease, one of the leading causes of death in San Diego County. This year, companies participating in the Heart & Stroke Walk will play a crucial role in the American Heart Association’s Nation of Lifesavers™ initiative, a national effort aimed at doubling cardiac arrest survival rates by 2030.

"We envision a future where at least one person in every household knows CPR," said Dr. Frias. "The impact of having a trained, confident lifesaver in every home across San Diego cannot be overstated. By joining the Heart & Stroke Walk, companies are helping to turn our community from bystanders into lifesavers, ensuring that when a cardiac emergency occurs, there is someone ready to step in and make a difference."

The American Heart Association is a global leader in resuscitation science, education, and training, and the official publisher of CPR guidelines. Through the Nation of Lifesavers initiative, the Association is committed to empowering individuals everywhere to act in the event of a cardiac emergency, making sure that no one is left without the help they need when seconds count.

The year-round Heart & Stroke Walk campaign will culminate on September 20th, where 10,000 participants will walk to save lives while raising essential funds to advance lifesaving research, increase CPR education and training and drive equitable health for all people. Companies interested in participating can contact Andrew Johnson at Andrew.Johnson@heart.org. For more information about the San Diego Heart & Stroke Walk, visit SDHeartWalk.org.

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About the American Heart Association  

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments as we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.     

For Media Inquiries: 214-706-1173

Erika Cervantes-Aarons; Erika.Cervantes-Aaro@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org