Lynchburg Heart Walk brings community, businesses together to fight heart disease and stroke

LYNCHBURG, Va., April 14, 2026 – As part of a spring tradition, your American Heart Association is excited to join with local businesses and community teams for the return of the Lynchburg Heart Walk, happening this Saturday, April 18, at Percival’s Island. Registration opens at 9:00 a.m., with the walk starting at 10:00 a.m. Funds raised from the event will help fight the no. 1 and no. 4 killers of Americans – heart disease and stroke. This year’s walk chair is Nat Marshall, retired from BWX Technologies. WFXR TV’s Sydney Jaxtheimer will emcee the event. “We are so excited to see the people of Lynchburg once again join together in this fight, as so many of us have been impacted by heart disease and stroke,” said Elizabeth Vail, senior development director, Southwest, West Central and SOVA, American Heart Association. “We can’t wait to see all of the smiling faces of our community teams, volunteers, sponsors and, of course, our survivors.” The morning will have many engaging experiences to offer attendees, including local survivor recognition, team photos with the “Heart Man” mascot, music courtesy of DJ Joey, a drum line performance, the new Wellness Area, CPR demonstrations and morning refreshments. Area sponsors include Centra, BWX Technologies, MH Masonry, Vannoy Construction, Whiting-Turner, Liberty University, Moore's Electric, First National Bank and PSH+. WFXR TV, Lamar Outdoor Advertising and Lynchburg Living are the media supporters for this event. “We can’t say thanks enough to our sponsors and community partners,” added Vail. “They helped us make this year’s Heart Walk a success and without them, our mission to save lives couldn’t happen.” Vail reminds attendees to look for survivors wearing their special Red Caps (heart survivor) and White Caps (stroke survivor). “If you want to know why you help, just look at our Red Cap and White Cap survivors,” she said. “They are all the motivation you need.” ### About the American Heart Association The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. For Media Inquiries: Kevin Pauley: kevin.pauley@heart.org For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721) heart.org and stroke.org