Hundreds step out for HeartKids

THE sun was shining for the hundreds of people who turned out to Elephant Walk on Sunday for the HeartKids’ Two Feet and a Heartbeat Walk.

While also a fundraising event, the goal of the walk was to raise awareness for childhood-onset heart disease and an offer an opportunity for HeartKid families in the community to stay connected.

On the day, about 200 walkers were joined by two ambassador families who shared their stories on how the charity has helped them.

Heartkids mum and event organiser Hannah Pearl said it was a busy day, beginning at 10am with speeches, which she described as “very emotional.”

 

“It was a lovely way to start the walk, we had our two ambassador families lead the walk and the Lions Club train followed up behind and picked up all the children who were tired.

“Everyone seemed to be just walking and chatting and it was a sea of blue and red and you were passing people who were out walking and it definitely helped to spread awareness.”

Participants walked 4km in honour of the four lives lost each week to childhood-onset heart disease, and made their way along the path with coloured flags; blue for participating Heart Kids, red for Heart Kid supporters and white in honour of Heart Angels.

 

Ms Pearl said the turnout from the HeartKids community was wonderful.

“From the HeartKids perspective, all the families were just so grateful and so thankful.”

Following the walk, attendees were also invited to attend the market where a range of entertainment and stalls were available.

 

Ms Pearl thanked those who gave their time on the day and supported the event, particularly the market vendors.

“They chose to come and support the HeartKids community, we’re super grateful for everyone involved and everyone who turned up.”

For more information on HeartKids or to donate, head to heartkids.org.au