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Turning Bystanders into Lifesavers in Greater Akron
In the heart of Greater Akron, an essential movement is underway, and local executives are at the forefront of this initiative. Every year, approximately 350,000 individuals suffer cardiac arrest outside hospitals, and tragically, nine out of ten do not survive. Immediate intervention through cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can significantly increase survival rates, yet many bystanders hesitate to act. The Greater Akron Heart Walk aims not only to raise funds but also to empower individuals with the skills necessary to save lives.
A Community United for a Lifesaving Goal
This year, during the 2025 Greater Akron Heart Walk, three local executives exemplified leadership and commitment, raising substantial funds for the American Heart Association's Nation of Lifesavers initiative. Peter Geise from FocusCFO raised over $14,000, followed closely by Jim and Julie Merklin from Bober Markey Fedorovich, who collectively raised nearly $13,000, and Jim Hewitt from GPD Group with over $5,600. Their efforts contributed to a total of nearly $300,000 raised at the event, each dollar representing a chance to train more individuals in lifesaving techniques.
Building a Culture of Preparedness
Beyond individual contributions, the event brought together over 60 local companies, unified under the mission to double the survival rate of cardiac arrest victims by 2030. This is not just a fundraising endeavor; it’s a community-wide commitment. Summa Health System and Bober Markey Fedorovich led corporate fundraising efforts, showcasing how local businesses can make tangible differences in community health outcomes.
Future of Lifesaving in Northeast Ohio
The Heart Walk aims to have at least one person in each household trained in CPR, a vision championed by Samantha Campbell, senior development director at the American Heart Association in Northeast Ohio. As we reflect on the success of the event, it’s clear that the Greater Akron community is taking vital steps to enhance its health and safety, preparing itself to combat the leading cause of death in the region - cardiovascular disease.
Join the Movement!
Next year’s event transitions into the 2026 Northeast Ohio Heart Walk, continuing the fight against cardiovascular disease under the leadership of Dr. Teri Lash-Ritter from the Cleveland Clinic Akron General South Submarket. Join this lifesaving mission and learn how you can become a part of the change by visiting heart.org/neowalk. Together, we can build a community of lifesavers and ensure that more lives are saved.
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