Savannah River Site (SRS) recently hosted the American Heart Association (AHA) Heart Walk Celebration, uniting employees, community members and partners in a show of support for heart health and the mission of the AHA. SRS announced a total of $182,664 raised for the AHA Heart Walk Campaign. This impressive outcome was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS), Savannah River Mission Completion and Battelle Savannah River Alliance who collectively supported the AHA’s mission through individual employee donations and more than 75 onsite fundraising events.

Senior Safety Specialist and 2025 AHA Heart Walk Chair Bradley Clark, stated, “Supporting the AHA is an opportunity to help further the study of cardiovascular research and help save lives.

This year’s Heart Walk Celebration honored the incredible dedication and fundraising achievements of participants while reinforcing the importance of heart disease awareness and prevention.”

Of the total amount raised, $109,612 came directly from SRNS, with an additional company check of $25,000 presented to the American Heart Association, bringing their total contribution to $134,612.

“We are incredibly grateful for the generous support of Savannah River
Nuclear Solutions," said Marah Curry, Development Director with the American Heart Association. "This longstanding collaboration is driving our mission forward and helping us build a community where everyone can live longer, healthier lives."

Among the many inspiring moments during this year’s campaign, a standout story came from one SRNS employee who raised over $17,000, driven by a deeply personal motivation.

“My father’s battle with cardiovascular issues opened my eyes to the seriousness and wide- spread nature of heart disease,” said SRNS Senior Vice President NNSA Tritium Operations Bradley Clark, 2025 AHA Heart Walk Chair (left) and Co-Chair Ashley Allen (right) present a check to Marah Curry, Development Director with the American Heart Association. and Programs JC Epting. “This experience inspired me to become more involved, to educate myself and to do my part in supporting prevention and awareness efforts. It’s important for others to not only get involved, but to truly understand the importance of this cause. When it becomes personal, you realize just how critical awareness and proactive measures truly are.”

This year’s Heart Walk Celebration proved that when a community comes together with purpose, the impact is lasting. Sean Alford, Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer, and SRNS American Heart Association Executive Sponsor, stated, “Supporting the American Heart Association reflects our deep commitment to the health and well- being of our employees, their families, and our communities. We’re proud to stand alongside the AHA in the fight against heart disease and stroke.”

For more than a century, the AHA has led the fight against heart disease and stroke, standing as the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary health organization focused on cardiovascular well- being.

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States. According to the CDC, one person dies every 33 seconds from cardiovascular disease, claiming nearly 695,000 lives each year. Nearly half of all U.S adults have some form of cardiovascular disease. Yet many heart-related conditions are preventable through lifestyle changes such as regular physical activity, healthy eating, stress management and avoiding tobacco use.