WS Chronicle

More than 4,500 Forsyth County residents took part in the American Heart Association’s 2012 Tanglewood Heart and Stroke Walk, on Saturday, Oct. 20.

Sponsored by Wake Forest Baptist Health and TE Connectivity, the annual event raised $550,000 for heart disease and stroke research and prevention education programs.

The 2012 Lifestyle Change Awards were given to local residents who have inspired others by making healthy changes in their lives. Nominations were submitted and the winner was chosen by committee. The adult Lifestyle Change Award, sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield, went to Norman Frye, a graduate of Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center’s cardiac rehab program. Frye stayed in the Medical Center’s maintenance program and now inspires patients  as he leads by example. He has lost 98 pounds through healthy eating and exercising six days a week.  He has also lowered his blood pressure and cholesterol.

Taylor Kijak from TE Connectivity and Jeremy Tilley from Frank L. Blum Construction were also recognized as 2012 Lifestyle Change Award Honorable Mentions.

The 2012 Kid’s Lifestyle Change Awards, sponsored by Salem Automation, was presented to Caroline Crotts, 8, who swims, dances and cheers to stay active.  She has made a decision to eat healthy, which includes ordering salads and no longer choosing chocolate milk, and constantly asking, “Is this healthy?” As a congenital heart disease survivor, Caroline’s drive for healthy eating and exercise lowers her future heart risk.

Mia Woodruff, 10, and Yary Hernandez, 12, were also recognized as 2012 Kid’s Lifestyle Change Award Honorable Mentions.