On April 12, I (Alina Jones, President) and our Secretary, Isabella Ocampo, had the opportunity to volunteer at the Orange County American Heart Association Heart & Stroke Walk. It was an incredibly meaningful experience that reminded us why our work matters.
We spent much of our time in the Survivors Corner, where we had the privilege of speaking with individuals who have lived through heart disease and stroke. Hearing their stories, which were filled with resilience, gratitude, and strength, was inspiring. We handed out hats and memorabilia to celebrate their journeys, each item representing not just survival, but the life-saving impact of cardiac research and medical advancements made possible through AHA funding.
Later, we moved to the finish line, cheering on participants as they completed their walk. It was moving to see families, survivors, and supporters all coming together with a shared purpose of fighting heart disease and stroke.
Experiences like this remind us that heart health is not just something we learn about, it’s something that affects real people in our communities every day. The Healthy Hearts Club is excited to continue creating opportunities like this, where we can connect, give back, and be part of something bigger than ourselves.