STANTON, Texas, Oct. 1, 2025 — Maddix Baker may only be 11 years old, but she’s already making a big impact in her community — and she’s just getting started.

The fifth-grade student at Stanton ISD has been participating in the American Heart Association’s Kids Heart Challenge since kindergarten, raising hundreds of dollars and inspiring classmates to live heart-healthy lives. This year, she’s stepping into a new role as a local Youth Heart Ambassador, with a fundraising goal of $500 and a mission to spread awareness about heart health.

“I really love that it gets kids motivated to have a healthy heart and to help others too,” Maddix said. “Helping others is a huge part of this world, and everyone who does that is a hero.”

The Kids Heart Challenge, now in its 40th year, is a nationwide initiative that teaches students how to care for their hearts through physical activity, emotional well-being, and service learning. Participants like Maddix learn Hands-Only CPR — sometimes to the beat of songs like “Pink Pony Club” — how to recognize a stroke, and how to make heart-healthy choices, all while raising critical funds for research and education.

Maddix’s journey began in Garden City, where she was the top fundraiser in her kindergarten class, raising more than $650 through a video campaign shared on social media. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and her younger brother Mason now joins her in the effort — though he’s admittedly more interested in trucks than heart health.

Her motivation goes beyond prizes and recognition. Her great-grandfather passed away from congestive heart failure. Though she never met him, his story left a lasting impression.

“I was big on helping people before helping myself,” she said. “That’s what I really loved.”

Maddix doesn’t just talk the talk — she runs it. Literally.

She’s active in basketball, volleyball, tennis, golf and even track. She drinks plenty of water, encourages her friends to make healthy choices, and subtly invites them to join her for runs or grab a water bottle.

“She’s a hard worker with a big heart,” said her mom, Kelcee Billett. “She would do anything for anyone if they needed it.”

Maddix also completed Finn’s Mission, learning CPR and mapping out emergency plans at school, including how to use the defibrillator and who to call in a crisis.

“If I saw someone in trouble, I’d do something,” she said. “Even if I couldn’t do CPR myself, I’d call 911 and get help.”

Molly Wright, school engagement director for the American Heart Association, is working to get Stanton ISD officially registered for this year’s Kids Heart Challenge. Maddix is ready to speak to her school and rally students across all grades.

“She makes a video every year to send to friends and family,” Wright said. “She’s passionate, articulate and a natural leader.”

Maddix’s message is simple but powerful: “You’re not only raising money — you’re helping raise healthy hearts in the U.S.”

The American Heart Association invites schools across Texas and the nation to join the Kids Heart Challenge. The program teaches students how to care for their hearts, educates them on CPR and stroke awareness, and fosters a culture of kindness and community service.

To register your school or learn more, visit www.heart.org/KidsHeartChallenge or contact Wright at Molly.Wright@heart.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. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than a 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