American Stock Car racer Casey Roderick will rev up thisyear’s Congenital Heart Walk, Sept. 28 at Depot Park.
“We’re really excited to have him,” said Terri Elliott, committee member for the walk and a congenital heart disease survivor. “He’ll give a speech to kick off the walk, and sign Hero Cards for kids and participants. He’s awesome.”
In its fifth year, the walk is a national fund-raising campaign with over 30 planned across the country. Last year, the Michigan walk set a campaign record for participation and fundraising.
Also speaking will be Dr. Mark Norris of UM Mott Hospital.
‘He’s my cardiologist,? Elliott said. ‘He sees patients from birth, a whole spectrum of people.?
Roderick, 22, is a Georgia native who competed in the NASCAR Nationwide Series in 2011 and 2012. He now races super late models in the Southern Super Series where he stands 10th overall, having just won the World Crown 300 in August.
‘It’s been amazing to watch how this event has grown over the last four years, and we’re very excited to have someone like Casey attend to support the children and help raise awareness,? says Sally Powers, walk co-chair and president of the Children’s Heart Foundation Michigan Chapter.
Powers is also the mother of a 6-year-old son with a congenital heart defect.
‘The walk also receives fantastic support from the state’s premier pediatric cardiac centers such as Mott Children’s Hospital and Children’s Hospital of Michigan, as well as the Michigan Department of Community Health, local and national sponsors, and of course our heart families and CHD survivors,? Powers said. ‘They have gone through so much and work so hard to raise funds that will help save lives, as well as improve the quality of life for those living with the disease.?
A congenital heart defect is a problem with the heart’s structure present at birth. There are more than 40 different types of congenital heart defects, and there is no known prevention or cure for any of them.
They are the most common birth defect in the U.S. and the number one cause of birth defect related deaths in infants. Approximately two to three million children and adults are thought to be living in the United States with congenital heart disease.
The walk is a joint effort between the Children’s Heart Foundation and Adult Congenital Heart Association. It will include food and refreshments, music, family entertainment, and inspirational rally before participants walk through Clarkston.
Registration will open at 9 a.m. with the 1.5 mile walk kicking-off at 10 a.m. Registration is free. Participants are encouraged to fundraise for the cause. For more information or to register online, visit www.congenitalheartwalk.org.
? Phil Custodio