August 15th, 2012 
When I was about six-years-old, my grandfather passed away from complications brought on by heart disease. My mom and dad, while healthy as can be now, had issues with high cholesterol in the past. I may seem healthy on the outside, but genetics and the choices I have made in my life have contributed to my cholesterol level being higher than normal, and I am only 32-years-old.
(Image Credit: American Heart Association – Puget Sound)
Heart disease, heart attacks and high cholesterol do not just affect men. According to the National Library of Medicine, heart disease is the number one killer of and the leading cause of disability among women in the United States.
Dr. William Kraus, a preventive cardiologist and research scientist at Duke University, says, “Both the risk of heart disease and risk factors for heart disease are strongly linked to family history. If you have a stroke in your family, you are more likely to have one.”
The change needs to start with me. And it can start with you too.
(Photo Credit: American Heart Association – Puget Sound)
On October 20, 2012, bring your family and friends to Seattle Center for the American Heart Association’s 2012 Puget Sound Heart and Stroke Walk. The Puget Sound Heart and Stroke Walk celebrates those who have made lifestyle changes and encourages many more to take the pledge to live healthier lifestyles while raising the dollars needed to fund life-saving research and initiatives in our local community. They need your support! Bring your energy, your passion and your stories and let your footsteps be heard.
The festivities begin at 7:30 a.m. with the Heart and Stroke Walk starting promptly at 9 a.m. After the Walk, take your children for fun activities at the Kids Zone. Learn about your heart health with free CPR demonstrations and blood pressure screenings.
Heart disease is very real to me, to my family, and to the men and women in the U.S. who have been affected by it. Come out to Seattle Center on October 20 and learn more about what you can do to start living healthier today.
Miss A Seattle City Editor, Lesley Haenny, working at the 2005 Sacramento Heart Walk in California (Photo Credit: Lesley Haenny)
WHEN: Saturday, October 20, 2012
Festival begins at 7:30 a.m.
Walk at 9 a.m.
WHERE:
Seattle Center
321 Mercer St
Seattle, WA 98109
Ph. 206-684-7200
REGISTRATION:
No Fees – Walkers are eligible for a Heart Walk t-shirt once they have raised a minimum of $100. You can register as an individual or join a team here.
