It was a picture perfect day for a stroll in downtown Dallas as UTSW participated in the 2019 American Heart Association’s (AHA) Dallas Heart Walk Sept. 14 at Reunion Park.

UT Southwestern employees, along with their friends and family members, exceeded the institution’s goal of 5,000 walkers, this year drawing more than 5,080 registered walkers and 111 teams. Donations to the AHA are still being added on behalf of UTSW and are currently at $32,103.

Participants gathered for fellowship and reflection before beginning the 5K (3.1-mile) or 1-mile Miracle Mile Walk to show their commitment to raising awareness to fight cardiovascular diseases.

The Heart Walk started in Dallas in 1994 and is the largest AHA walk in the country. The event raises money to assist heart disease and stroke patients, fund research at UT Southwestern and other leading research centers, and promote wellness initiatives. It also offers a way for loved ones to honor those who have succumbed to those diseases. The majority of the funds raised during the Dallas Heart Walk stay in North Texas.