By Desiree Williams
Bolt for the Heart is ready for its next mission.
Dedicated to heart disease education and support, the nonprofit aims to purchase and donate 130 automated external defibrillators, or AEDs, in 2019 to equip sheriff patrol cars throughout the state. The goal comes in the wake of a four-year process totaling 465 AEDs donated to supply each state police patrol car.
AEDs are used to restart the heart in the event of sudden cardiac arrest. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 70 to 90 percent of those suffering sudden cardiac arrest die before reaching a hospital or receiving other emergency care.
Bolt for the Heart will give all proceeds from the eighth annual Bolt for the Heart 5K Run/Walk to purchase AEDs. The race will begin at 9 a.m. Nov. 28, Thanksgiving morning, at Carter Green at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
“What’s kind of cool with 3,000 runners from north central Indianapolis, we’re finding this has become families’ new tradition,” said Pierre Twer, Bolt for the Heart president.
There were 3,300 participants last year, and Twer said registrations are 30 percent ahead of that mark. Organizers want to raise $200,000 in sponsorships.
For those unable to travel to Carmel, there is an opportunity for a “virtual” run at the 14 state police posts throughout Indiana. Bolt will send a bib number and finisher’s medal to the selected location so participants can race when and where they’re able. Registration is $20.
Registration for the Carmel race is $30. Veterans and those older than 75 can run for free.
For more, visit boltfortheheart.com.
