Released November 01, 2004

HATTIESBURG -- The Forrest/Lamar County chapter of the American Heart Association and the Division of Recreational Sports at The University of Southern Mississippi will host the association's annual Heart Walk on Southern Miss' Pride Field Nov. 13.

Organizers of the 12th annual walk are hoping to attract around 500 walkers and raise approximately $100,000. Registration is from 8:30-9:30 a.m., and the walk will begin at 9:30 a.m.

Participants will have the option to walk or run 3.2 miles around campus or walk on the Bruce and Virginia Wilgus Fitness and Wellness Trail in front of the Payne Center. Survivors of heart disease or stroke, known as "Red Cap" participants, are encouraged to walk the day of the event.

Jackie Lebeau, logistics chair for the event, said the goal of the walk is to raise awareness of heart disease in the community.

"Heart disease is the number one killer in both men and women of all races and ethnicities in the United States," Lebeau said. "Heart disease is not an 'elderly' disease; it affects people of all ages."

All money raised at the event will benefit Forrest and Lamar counties through research and educational programs. Any person or group is open to participate in the walk at no cost. To be a team leader, call Jackie Lebeau or Susan Bone at 266-5405 to obtain an information packet. T-shirts can be ordered in advance in the Payne Center for $10.

-30-