The Chickasaw Nation will be participating in the 2011 Start! Central Oklahoma Heart Walk April 23 at the AT&T Bricktown Ballpark in Oklahoma City.
Organized by the American Heart Association, the annual non-competitive 5K (about three miles) walking event strives to increase awareness about the risk factors of heart diseases and stroke as well as raise funds to support medical research and educational programs. It also honors the survivors of heart disease, stroke and related surgeries.
Heart diseases and stroke are the leading causes of deaths among Oklahomans, according to the organization.
The day's events begin 8 a.m. with a Survivors Breakfast, followed by the Heart Walk at 10 a.m. There will also be a mile long survivor walk. The walks are family friendly and children, strollers, wagons, and animals on a leash are welcome.
Tribal citizens, employees, survivors and family members are encouraged to join the Chickasaw Nation in promoting heart healthy lifestyle.
"The Heart Walk is an excellent opportunity for people to come together in the fight against heart disease and stroke," said Bill Anoatubby, Governor of the Chickasaw Nation. "In addition to raising funds for research, this event also increases awareness about the importance of a heart healthy lifestyle."
Interested individuals may contact one of the following team captains to join the tribal team:
Stephanie Wright or Barbara Quinlan at the Chickasaw Nation Medical Center (800-851-9136)
Tena Jolley at the Chickasaw Nation Benefits and Compensation Department (580-436-7259)
Roberta Williams at the Chickasaw Nation Purcell Health Clinic (405-527-4700)
Ginger Edmondson at the Chickasaw Nation Special Services Department (580-371-2040)
There is no registration fee to join the team. Any individual raising $100 or more will get a free Heart Walk t-shirt.
For more information, please call 580-371-2040 or 1-800-851-9136 or visit www.okcheartwalk.org.
About American Heart Association:
The American Heart Association is a non-profit organization that promotes heart healthy lifestyle to reduce the number of deaths caused by cardiovascular diseases and stroke. Based in Dallas, Texas, the organizations' mission is to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. For more information, please visit www.okcheartwalk.org.
