October 1, 2020

The pandemic didn’t stop our walkers! A number of FirstEnergy employees still found ways to step up and support American Heart Association Heart Walks. More than 1,000 virtual walkers got their steps in when they joined the 2020 Greater Akron Heart Walk on Aug. 29. The FirstEnergy team raised more than $78,000 for the event. Preparation for the Akron Heart Walk started early with a virtual event kickoff on Aug. 7, featuring guest speakers who shared their experiences with heart disease and a video (link to Chef Edward video) of FirstEnergy’s Chef Edward Bailey, lead, Food Services, preparing a heart-healthy meal. They also had the chance to test their knowledge on nutritious meal choices during a live trivia activity.

Getting in his Heart Walk steps with pooches, Berger and Manny, is Gary Benz, senior vice president, Strategy.

Twelve Toledo Edison employees participated in a virtual heart walk in collaboration with the Toledo Edison Professionals Club. Rich Sweeney, regional president, chaired the event and Victor Coleman, consultant, Regional External Affairs, was the event’s lead. Activities included walks, runs and exercising while practicing social distancing. Toledo Edison employees contributed more than $1,700 prior to the FirstEnergy Foundation’s matching funds.

Participants in the Morgantown Heart Walk were encouraged to walk with family members and pets in their neighborhood, local parks and trails while practicing social distancing.

Seen here are Luke Harrington, and his puppy, Emmy, during a heart walk stroll. Luke is the grandson of Libby, consultant, Regional External Affairs, and Randy Durr, manager, Regional External Affairs.