PORTAGE, Mich —

Record numbers came out to take a Saturday morning walk in support of the American Heart Association.

The “Heart Walk” was held at the Celery Flats in Portage.

More than five hundred walkers participated, and the American Heart Association surpassed their fundraising goal of $85,000, reaching $92,000, as of Saturday morning.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in West Michigan, according to the American Heart Association.

Dr. Dean D. Kindler , Regional President CEO, Southwest Region, Ascension Michigan served as the chair for the 2023 Kalamazoo Heart Walk.

Heart disease and stroke are largely preventable based on how you eat, move and manage stress, according to the American Heart Association.

Newschannel 3 Morning Anchor Kristen Aquirre emceed the event.

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