WS Chronicle

More than a dozen doctors and other healthcare professionals swapped out their practices and lab coats for the park and walking shoes last Saturday during Red H.E.A.R.R.T.’s first Walk with the Doctors & Medical Practitioners 5K. 

Red H.E.A.R.R.T. (Help Education And Reduce Risk Today) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the health and overall well-being of women, children and teens who are at risk for, or have heart disease. The initiative was founded by Cheryl Lindsay in 2010 after she lost her mother, Gail Lindsay, to heart disease. 

Throughout the year, Red H.E.A.R.R.T. hosts various events designed to connect, educate, engage and empower to take action to reduce life-threatening risk and to create a positive healthy lifestyle – and have a good time while doing it. 

Lindsay told The Chronicle that she got the idea for the 5K after attending a similar event that had only one doctor. “I wanted something where multiple doctors and multiple health practitioners come out and share with individuals while they’re walking,” Lindsay explained. What was also unique about Red H.E.A.R.R.T.’s 5K is that all the doctors and healthcare professionals in attendance were Black women, a welcoming sight for those searching for healthcare professionals who look like them. 

“My goal was to have different doctors with different areas of expertise who are ready and willing to share and listen,” Lindsay said. “Whatever they want to talk about and  I wanted to make sure there were enough experts out here so you can have that conversation.”

Before making the one mile walk through Shaffner Park, participants warmed up by line dancing. Once the walk began, participants walked in different groups to allow everyone an opportunity to talk. 

For more information on Red H.E.A.R.R.T. visit www.redhearrt.com.