Represent Your City Wiggins-Lucedale

George Regional Health System Sponsors First Ever County Heart Walk

Submitted by cskaggs

Employees at George Regional Health System have long participated in the annual American Heart Association Heart Walk in Jackson County, but this year, the system has undertaken the challenge of sponsoring a heart walk here in our own county. According to the American Heart Association, almost 36 percent of all George County deaths are heart disease and stroke related.

The Easter-themed Heart Walk is set for Saturday, March 30 and includes many free family-friendly activities. The walk begins at 8:30 (registration begins at 7:15) on the hospital’s campus with a 5K Fun Run through the city of Lucedale.

“We are very pleased to host this event for our community. Heart disease affects many lives in our county. This is a good way to bring people together to increase recognition of heart disease and the heart care services our hospital offers,” explains Paul Gardner, George Regional Health System CEO.

All proceeds benefit the American Heart Association. “We are so proud of our compassionate Heart Walk team at George Regional Health System and the wonderful efforts they are making for the benefit of the American Heart Association’s Heart Walk,” says Kathy Aycock, Regional Director for the American Heart Association.

While recognizing a serious issue, the event also promises to be a fun, family-friendly day. The Easter bunny will be available for photos and at 10:00 there will be an Easter egg hunt with prizes galore. The event also features face painting, balloon art, refreshments, door prizes, and heart health booths. The Easter egg hunt and children’s activities are all FREE!

The fun run will begin on the George Regional Hospital campus, winding through the city of Lucedale onto the new Greenway, which joins the City Park, and back to the hospital. The 5k Fun Walk/Run is $15 and includes a commemorative T-shirt. Pre-registration is due by March 8. Participants may also register the day of the race for $20, but will not receive a shirt.

Registration forms can be found at the Wellness Center, 838 Mill Street, and at www.GeorgeRegional.com. Participants can also register online at www.eventbrite.com. For questions, please contact Stephanie Chisholm at 601-947-0709 or schisholm@georgeregional.com.
Information source: George Regional Health System.