At Fickling, we believe that success is not just measured in dollars, but also in the positive impact we can make on the lives of others. That’s why we were proud to be a part of this year’s First Coast Heart Walk, an event that brought our team and the community together for a common cause: to eliminate heart disease and stroke, two silent but deadly threats that affect countless lives every year.

Heart Disease and Strokes: Silent Killers

Heart disease and strokes. These words strike fear into the hearts of millions of people, and for a good reason. They are responsible for more deaths each year than any other disease, and their effects can be life-changing for survivors and their families. Heart disease can lead to heart attacks, while strokes can result in severe disabilities. It’s a sobering reality, but one that should inspire us all to take action.

The American Heart Association: A Beacon of Hope

The American Heart Association (AHA) is an organization that has been at the forefront of the battle against heart disease and strokes for many years. Their tireless efforts in research, education, and advocacy have saved countless lives and improved the quality of life for survivors.

In the last year, the American Heart Association funded 1,694 projects totaling $479M in research support. These investments are driving innovations and breakthroughs that will shape the future of heart health.

The Event and Funds Raised: A Community United

On September 9th, we joined hands with our community to participate in the First Coast Heart Walk. The event was a tremendous success, raising nearly $1.1 million overall. These funds will play a pivotal role in supporting cardiovascular research, ensuring that hospitals can provide top-notch care, and ultimately reducing the impact of heart disease and stroke on our communities.

Making an Impact Beyond the Walk

The impact of the American Heart Association extends far beyond the event itself. The First Coast American Heart Association Health Strategies team implemented 21 sustainable changes impacting more than 55,000 people in Northeast Florida. These sustainable changes included the donation of commercial refrigeration units to local food pantries and the donation of blood pressure cuffs to local free clinics.

Through their Executives with Heart Campaign, the AHA has funded over 500 Anytime CPR kits for our local military and veteran community. During these donation events, they have trained families on Hands-Only CPR and Infant CPR and provided health screenings. These efforts are making our communities safer and healthier.

Conclusion: Walking Toward a Healthier Future

In conclusion, First Coast Heart Walk was about much more than walking. It was about coming together as a community to make a difference. Heart disease and strokes affect us all, and by supporting the American Heart Association and participating in events like this, we are taking a stand against these silent killers.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who joined us in this meaningful event. Together, we are making strides towards a world of longer, healthier lives. The American Heart Association’s mission to promote physical activity and a culture of health and well-being is more crucial than ever, and we are proud to stand alongside them in this important endeavor.

Thank you for being a part of this special experience with us. Our commitment to the fight against heart disease and stroke remains steadfast, and we look forward to continuing this journey, one step at a time. 💙