Toledo Heart Walk Turns Bystanders into Lifesavers Through CPR Education

Daily Dose  |  05/12/2026 12:00 pm

WHAT: The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, and nearly 1,000 community members will gather for the NEW Toledo Heart Walk™ experience — a participant-centered event focused on CPR readiness, survivor stories and community impact. Media can capture activity in the new Be Extraordinary area as participants practice Hands-Only CPR and commit to simple heart-healthy steps, followed by an opening ceremony featuring local survivors before the walk begins. Expect energetic scenes with families, survivors and company teams throughout the venue, along the route and at the finish.

WHO: American Heart Association volunteers and supporters, including local heart and stroke survivors. The event is sponsored by SSOE.

REMARKS: Vince DiPofi, survivor and 2026 Heart Walk Chair

WHERE: Promenade Park
400 Water Street
Toledo, OH 43604

WHEN: Sunday, May 17, 2026   8:30 a.m. start of the ceremony

MORE: According to the American Heart Association, more than 350,000 people suffer cardiac arrest outside of a hospital every year, and nearly 90% don’t survive. But immediate bystander CPR can make the difference — doubling or even tripling someone's chance of survival. Heart Walk is the Association’s largest community-facing initiative. Through fundraising, community education and corporate engagement, Heart Walk aims to enhance CPR training accessibility, bolster bystander preparedness, increase funding for vital research and drive equitable health for all people. Participants can register for the Toledo Heart Walk at 2026 Toledo Heart Walk - American Heart Association. From there, they can create a fundraising page and complete the Lifesaver Challenge, which includes learning Hands-Only CPR in just 90 seconds.