Over $2.5 million raised for life-saving research, advocacy at Tampa Bay Heart Walk

The American Heart Association encourages Tampa Bay to boost physical and mental health while funding community wellness.

TAMPA BAY, Nov. 8, 2022 — The American Heart Association (AHA), the leading voluntary health organization focused on heart and brain health, is proud to announce that the 2022 Tampa Bay Heart Walk drew nearly 15,000 registered walkers, including over 170 Top Walkers, raising more than $2.5 million for life-saving research and advocacy.

On Saturday, a crowd of about 20,000 community members, teams and local businesses gathered at Raymond James Stadium to celebrate heart and stroke survivors, raise life-saving funds and encourage physical activity. This year’s return to one of the largest Heart Walks in the nation was led by 2022 Heart Walk Chair John Couris, president and CEO of Tampa General Hospital.

“TGH is proud to participate and support in the effort to not only raise critical funds but to get our organization and our community involved in the Walk and all that it represents,” said Couris. “This year’s Walk was a tremendous success, and we hope everyone who participated recognizes that together we helped move the needle toward a world of longer, healthier lives.”

Led byCouris, Tampa General Hospital teams raised more than $140,000 for this year’s walk. Couris challenged 2023 Heart Walk Chair Archie Collins, president and CEO of TECO, to build on this year’s momentum, and increase community participation.

Raymond James was the top company fundraiser this year raising more than $388,000. Raymond James was followed by HCA Healthcare – West Florida Division ($300,000), Tampa General Hospital, and WFLA News Channel 8 ($85,000) as the leading corporate fundraisers. 

The 73 community teams participating in the walk collectively raised more than $68,000, including this year’s top team Team Davis, led by survivor Jennifer Davis, which raised over $4,300.

The Tampa Bay Heart Walk is made possible by our incredible community sponsors, including our Tampa Bay  “Life is Why” sponsor Tampa General Hospital. Additional local sponsors include BayCare, CITY Furniture, WFLA News Channel 8, KForce, HCA Foundation and TECO.

The Tampa Bay Heart Walk is the signature event of the American Heart Association’s Heart Challenge program which is designed to help organizations positively impact employees’ overall health and well-being. The program is anchored through a series of customizable workplace events that inspire employees to be more engaged, reconnect with colleagues, and participate in physical activity — all while supporting a great cause and have a great deal of fun doing it.

Funds raised from the Tampa Bay Heart Walk support research, advocacy, CPR training and to promote better health in support of the Association’s 2024 Health Equity Impact Goal — reducing barriers to health care access and quality. Visit www2.heart.org to learn more.

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.