Teams from Abrazo Scottsdale Campus and Abrazo Central Campus participated in the first-ever West Valley Heart Walk in Goodyear, helping raise more than $220,000 in pledges and donations for cardiovascular research and education.

Presented by Abrazo Health in support of the American Heart Association, launching the West Valley Heart Walk was designed to recognize the impact that West Valley residents and businesses can make on raising money to fund research and education, advocate for health and save local lives.

Around 5,000 walkers participated in the Dec. 2 event and the total amount raised is expected to be approximately $225,000, noted American Heart Association Phoenix Development Director Allie Routier.

Chaired by Abrazo West Campus Chief Executive Officer Hans Driessnack, the family-friendly event included a three-mile walk, one-mile survivor miracle mile, health education, entertainment and other activities.

Heart disease and stroke are the No. 1 and No. 5 killers in the nation, according to the American Heart Association, the world’s leading voluntary organization dedicated to building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.

“Heart disease has affected me both personally and professionally, and I see its effects on a daily basis in our hospitals. The West Valley Heart Walk brought together our community to help fund medical breakthroughs for cardiovascular heart disease,” said Driessnack. “I would like to thank all of the individuals and families that participated, the West Valley business leaders who volunteered their time to serve on the event’s Executive Leadership Team, and all of the event sponsors. Through their support the American Heart Association will receive critically needed funds to help those struggling with heart disease and support the next generation of heart and stroke medical breakthroughs.”

For more information about Abrazo Health hospitals, take a free heart health risk assessment or to find a doctor, visit AbrazoHealth.com.