Independence associates, family and friends at 2019 Heart Walk.
Independence associates show strong support for 2019 Heart Walk
Independence Blue Cross associates, family, and friends participated in the 2019 Philadelphia Heart Walk at Citizens Bank Park on Saturday, November 2. The annual event brings people throughout the region together in the fight against heart disease and stroke.
Independence was recognized as a top fundraising company, with over $216,000 in contributions. Fundraising efforts were led largely by associates who volunteered to promote the event among coworkers as well as family and friends.
The 2019 Philadelphia Heart Walk raised over $2 million in total for the American Heart Association.
The importance of Hands-Only CPR
This year’s event emphasized the importance of Hands-Only CPR in saving lives. In the Philadelphia region, only 15 percent of people survive sudden cardiac arrest. When performed immediately, Hands-Only CPR can double or even triple a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival. Chest compressions push oxygen-rich blood through the body to keep vital organs alive until EMS arrives.
Independence Blue Cross and the American Heart Association are both a part of the CPR Ready coalition. CPR Ready aims to increase the number of people who can deliver Hands-Only CPR in a cardiac emergency. The coalition also provides education on the use of automated external defibrillators, or AEDs. This life-saving device can shock a person’s heart back into rhythm.
Media contact:
Britni Zahodnick
215-241-2228
britni.zahodnick@ibx.com