LOUISVILLE, Kentucky, Dec. 18, 2024 -- Carrie King of Louisville, recently achieved an incredible milestone by placing ninth in the nation in the American Heart Association's 2024 Leaders of Impact™ campaign. Leaders of Impact participants are nominated by their peers to help advance the mission of the American Heart Association through impactful fundraising and awareness efforts.
King, Louisville's sole representative for the 2024 campaign, raised $60,850 to support the Association's mission of fighting heart disease and stroke - a cause she says is very personal to her.
"Heart health isn't just an abstract cause for me -- it's my reality," King said. "I was born with Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome, a condition that disrupts the electrical signals in my heart and has required multiple procedures throughout my life. I've experienced firsthand how vital research, medical advancements and community support are in managing heart disease. This nomination allows me to turn my personal journey into something that can help others."
"Carrie's journey, marked by her resilience and commitment, serves as an inspiration to us all," said Amanda Hina, development director at the American Heart Association in Kentuckiana. "Leaders of Impact is not just about recognition; it's about making a tangible difference in the lives of countless individuals. Through her advocacy and leadership, Carrie is helping to bring awareness and vital resources to the forefront, driving progress in heart health for everyone."
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in Kentucky and the United States. Additionally, an aging, more diverse population, along with a significant increase in heart disease and stroke risk factors among younger people, is expected to nearly triple the nation's price tag on cardiovascular disease (CVD) by 2050, according to new published projections from the American Heart Association.
For more than 100 years, the American Heart Association has driven change by removing barriers to health, investing in groundbreaking research, educating health care professionals and patients and advocating for healthy policies. Currently, there are 30 active AHA-funded research grants in Kentucky totaling $6.8 million. Locally, the Association is investing in initiatives around CPR and AED education and awareness, blood pressure control and hypertension management. It is also collaborating with hospitals, clinics and community organizations to support quality programs for controlling blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes.
Leaders of Impact launched on Oct. 17 in hundreds of cities across the nation and culminated on Dec. 4. Each nominee's participation is focused on opportunities to be a changemaker with a shared purpose to raise critical awareness and fund the mission of the American Heart Association.
For more information about Leaders of Impact and to view a list of all 2024 nominees, visit leadersofimpact.heart.org. To learn more about the Association's local efforts, visit www.heart.org/kentucky.
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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 a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact, our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.