BENTON — In an effort to encourage Saline County residents to join the fight against heart disease, Saline Memorial Hospital (SMH) is hosting the second annual “The Beat Goes On” 5K Walk Run on Feb. 27, 2010. Proceeds from the event will go to the "Cardiac Assistance" fund established by the Saline Memorial Health Foundation.
The 2009 race had over 400 participants and they’re hoping to increase numbers this February.[more]
“It’s exciting to see hundreds of people gather for an event that not only promotes their health, but the health of others they may not even know,” said Matt Brumley, SMH Ambulance Manager.
In September 2008, SMH announced the opening of an interventional cardiology program through a partnership with St. Vincent Health System and Heart Clinic Arkansas (HCA). Through this partnership, HCA and Saline Heart Group provide 24/7 heart and vascular coverage for Saline County patients experiencing a cardiac emergency.
“We’re extremely proud of the impact the interventional program has had on the community,” said Clint Mickle, SMH Administrative Director of Cardiovascular Services. “To date, countless residents have benefited from our focused efforts to enhance cardiac care. We’re very appreciative of the support we receive from cardiologists from both HCA and Saline Heart Group.”
Proceeds from the 5K event will assist underprivileged cardiac patients with medication expenses as well as help purchase cardiac monitors for our ambulance service.
The Beat Goes On” 5K, which is a certified course, will start at SMH and will take participants through downtown Benton. Pre-registration is $20 or $25 the day of the event. Registration forms are available at www.SalineMemorial.org or arkansasrunner.com.
The race is sponsored in part by: Benton Advertising & Promotion Commission, Heart Clinic Arkansas, Saline Heart Group, Smith-Caldwell, St. Vincent Health Systems, Longhills Family Dentistry, River City Flooring, Everett Buick Pontiac GMC and AeroCare. Each registration comes with a long sleeved race t-shirt.
For more information about the race or to become a sponsor, call (501) 776-6764 or email foundation@salinememorial.org.
