Dear Editor:
Almost 16 years ago, on April 4th, I had a stroke. A healthy lifestyle is our best weapon against heart disease and stroke – the No.1 and No.5 killers in the United States. That’s why I have been participating in the Central Massachusetts Heart and Stroke Walk for the past 11 years. I’m now 46 years old and I continue to work as an elementary school teacher in Worcester Public Schools. I had my stroke and received care in Worcester. I walk to raise awareness in our community; a stroke can happen to anyone at any age.
It’s time to fight heart disease and stroke, it’s time to Move More. April is Move More Month and the American Heart Association is urging Bay Staters to get the recommended 150 minutes of physical activity a week. You don’t have to run marathons, just Move More!
At the Central MA Heart and Stroke Walk, we are walking to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of heart disease and stroke. Small steps—both the kind we take and the kind we make—lead to big gains. We will be creating healthier communities and supporting lifesaving research by putting one foot in front of the other and walking. The Walk will be held on May 11, 2019 at Quinsigamond State Park in Worcester, Mass.
Not all heroes wear capes. Be a Heart Walk hero and join us for the Central MA Heart and Stroke Walk. For more information, please visit centralmaheartwalk.org.
Respectfully,
Rachel S. Henry
Stroke Survivor
Worcester
