Steven J. Hurd

SDSU will host its first Heart Walk on April 22 to raise money for the American Heart Association.

According to the AHA Web site, cardiovascular diseases and stroke are the number one cause of death in South Dakota. In 2006, 33.8 percent of all deaths statewide were caused by cardiovascular diseases.

The primary goal of the Heart Walk is fundraising although a secondary objective is raising awareness related to heart health.

The event is a 5K walk/run that will begin at 5:30 p.m. and end at 7:30 p.m. The walk will start outside of the Stanley J. Marshall HPER Center and finish at the Wellness Center. Subway sandwiches will be served to participants at the conclusion of the walk.

Individuals or teams of individuals are encouraged to participate in the event. Individuals or teams must register online to participate in the walk.

Individuals who participate and raise over $25 will receive a free T-shirt, and teams will also receive prizes for their fundraising efforts.

The American Heart Association division of Sioux Falls will sponsor the Heart Walk. All donations and money raised will go to benefit the AHA and their continuing goals to raise awareness about heart-related issues and prevent the onset of cardiovascular problems.

Further information regarding the Heart Walk can be gained by stopping by information booths at the Wellness Center on upcoming Wednesdays and Thursdays. Registration and additional information can be found online at www.heartwalk.kintera.org/siouxfallssd.

Brittany Boehler, event coordinator, can answer other questions via e-mail at baboehler.sdstate.edu.