JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Thousands of people gathered at the Jacksonville Fairgrounds on Saturday morning for the annual First Coast Heart Walk, an event dedicated to raising awareness and funds for heart health.

The walk, hosted by the American Heart Association, brought together families, survivors and supporters to celebrate life, movement and community. Participants walked one- and three-mile routes, all while honoring loved ones affected by heart disease and stroke.

The event raised more than $1.1 million, which will go toward funding critical research, CPR training and programs that teach people how to save lives during cardiac emergencies. Organizers say it’s about more than just walking — it’s about taking meaningful steps to make Jacksonville a healthier place.

For many, the walk carried a personal connection.

“And just one of our teammates, surviving heart disease, and open-heart surgeries like such a deep thing, and we’re so grateful for it and not everyone survives it. It is such a big thing that all of these people are out here today,” participant Darian said.

“Cardiac issues are also one of the top causes of death in the United States. So I think it’s really important to bring awareness and learn everything you can and also bring awareness to the different research to help out in the future,” UNF student Addison Spell added.

The Heart Walk continues to inspire the community to prioritize heart health while coming together for a meaningful cause.

Those who couldn’t attend in person can still support the American Heart Association by donating online to help fund future lifesaving initiatives.