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Berks County Heart Hero 5K raises $20,000 for American Heart Association

bu American Heart Association

Oct 15, 2019

Runners take off through Gring’s Mill Recreation Area during the Berks County Heart Hero 5K

Reading, Pa. — More than 75 runners and walkers turned out at Gring’s Mill Recreation Area on Saturday, Oct. 5 for second annual Berks County Heart Hero 5K. The event raised $20,000 for the American Heart Association.

Dr. Eric Elgin, chief of cardiology at Reading Hospital, Tower Health and Kelly Tyrrell, business development director with Encompass Health Reading Rehabilitation welcomed participants at the starting line before kicking off the race. Participants had the option to run or walk the scenic, mostly flat course through Gring’s Mill Recreation Area. Awards were given to the top finishers in each age category. Chris Kline was the top male finisher and Lisa Zwierzyna was the top female finisher.

Funds raised will support the American Heart Association’s mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives through community education, public policy advocacy, healthcare quality improvement and investment in lifesaving research.

The Berks County Heart Hero 5K was sponsored locally by Tower Health Reading Hospital, Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Reading and Stevens & Lee.

For more information about sponsorship or participation in American Heart Association events in Berks County, contact Erin Velazquez at [email protected] or visit www.heart.org/berkspa5k.

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a leading force for a world of longer, healthier lives. With nearly a century of lifesaving work, the Dallas-based association is dedicated to ensuring equitable health for all. We are a trustworthy source empowering people to improve their heart health, brain health and well-being. We collaborate with numerous organizations and millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, advocate for stronger public health policies, and share lifesaving resources and information. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

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