A team of 1199SEIU members were among hundreds of people who participated in the first ever Spring Capital Region Heart Walk and Health Fair. The event was held at The Crossings in Colonie, New York, a suburb of Albany, on Saturday, May12, 2012.

“We walked to support the American Heart Association and its mission to promote healthy lives, free of heart diseases and stroke,” said Diane Turner, a CNA at Diamond Hill Nursing Home in Troy. “As healthcare workers, we know how important that is.

“Taking small steps like doing a little bit of exercise every day, reducing stress or staying away from cigarettes can make a lot of difference in protecting our hearts—even adding years to our lives. And let’s face it – this was also a great way to spend time with my 1199 sisters and brothers, outside of the nursing home or meetings. It was a gorgeous day and we had a great time “

1199 Organizer Tanya Grant, the Heart Walk Team Leader, said, “Our team raised $1,630. For a first effort, this is tremendous. We have been talking about getting involved in more events like this one---not only because it allows us contribute to our communities, but we get to be outside, enjoying and walking too!

In addition to a one-mile and three-mile walk, the event provided free health screenings, information, CPR instruction, and even a Kids Zone with a bounce house among other activities.

The American Heart Association is the largest voluntary health organization working to prevent, treat and defeat heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases. These diseases, the Nation's No.1 and No.4 killers, claim more than 813,804 American lives a year. All proceeds from the walk went to the American Heart Association, which funds nearly a million dollars in research in the Capital Region each year.