PHOENIX, Nov. 18, 2025 — More than 30,000 people are expected to gather for the 2026 Phoenix Heart Walk on March 28, 2026, at Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza, all with the common goal of advancing the American Heart Association’s lifesaving mission. Nine out of 10 people who suffer cardiac arrest outside the hospital don’t survive—a sobering statistic that underscores the Heart Walk’s urgent call to action: fundraise, learn CPR and take action to save lives.[1]
In addition to raising critical funds, the Phoenix Heart Walk will bring together heart disease and stroke survivors, as well as participants from various local companies, to make a difference. Every walker who joins the Heart Walk, every dollar donated, means more people trained in lifesaving CPR, more research and more lifesaving moments for everyone. Leading and championing the initiative as the 2026 Heart Walk Chair is Jack Biggs, Executive Vice President of Desert Financial Credit Union.
“My passion for physical well-being—combined with being touched so closely by heart disease—led me to the American Heart Association and the organization’s mission to fight against heart disease and stroke,” Biggs said. “Given my passion, I’m focused on activation for the Phoenix Heart Walk and, within our organization, physical health and well-being is aligned to Desert Financial’s mission of empowering financial well-being.
The American Heart Association Phoenix Division’s relationship with Desert Financial began in 2020 when the organization formed a company Heart Walk team. In 2021, Jeff Meshey, president and CEO of Desert Financial, served as the Phoenix Heart Walk Chair and, today, he continues to support the mission as the American Heart Association Phoenix Board Chairman.
The Phoenix Heart Walk is locally sponsored by Desert Financial and Banner Health. To learn more or to register for the event, visit www.phoenixheartwalk.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 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, Instagram or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Satara Tinkler – satara.tinkler@heart.org
