Contrary to my belief, on the day of the heart walk, I did not need sunscreen or glasses. In fact I needed sweat pants and an umbrella. I arrived at the Raymond James Stadium at 7:30 a.m., along with the rain the and cold front. Because the event was so well organized, it was easy to find parking at many different lot locations. I was disappointed over the dreary weather because I thought many people would cancel. Of the 30,000 people expected to attend the event, over 20,000 lived by the saying “rain or shine” and showed up to walk in the rain.

The fundraiser raised money for heart disease and stroke awareness. The American Heart Association’s goal of  $2,200,000 was well exceeded. On November 10, 2013, they had raised $2,714,361. Some of the largest donations came from Baycare and Jabil.

Together HCC’s team consisted of 39 students and faculty. HCC raised $2,156 for the cause. Speaking to some of the students that participated in the 2013 Heart walk we were able to get insight from a student’s perspective.

Blake Kennon, a student at HCC that participated in the walk, had many  reasons to be participate in the fundraiser. “To be honest, I do it because my dad has heart problems and diabetes, and my mother passed away from a heart attack. So [I do] anything I can do to support the cause,” Kennon said. Kennon participated in the 2012 and 2013 heart walk and said that not only is the atmosphere at the events amazing, but that he has also met very nice people both years. Although his dad could not participate this year, he hopes he will be able to participate next year.

Another participant, Victoria Florio said, “It affects my life because I am more aware of heart disease. My niece is a survivor. I see how many people are affected by it so I can be more supportive and helpful to those with heart conditions in the future.” Participating in the Heart Walk is just the beginning for Florio, encouraging her friends to support the cause is her next goal.

So why am I so passionate about the cause? My daughter was born with a heart disease. I am so grateful to have my baby because heart disease is the most common and mostly deadly disease for infants. It is really important for me to spread the word. Hopefully, all of our efforts will educate the community about prevention.