'Everyone is impacted by heart disease:' Florence community walks to spread awareness

FLORENCE S.C. (WPDE) — The Center for Disease Control reports heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S. and Saturday, Florence community members came together to help spread awareness.

Dozens of people gathered outside the performing arts center in downtown Florence to participate in the Pee Dee Heart Walk.

Last year's event was virtual because of the coronavirus so organizers said they were excited to have such a large turnout.

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They said this year's walk allowed people to remember that heart disease affects everyone in some way so spreading awareness is vital.

"Everyone is impacted by heart disease. It's a great cause and it's great to see everybody out here," Executive Leadership for the Heart Walk, Don Bockoven said.

"It's been a hard year and a half for everybody and to be able to come together and see everyone in person again after not seeing everyone for so long it's been great," Senior Director of the Heart Association, Sheryl Love said.

If you would like to donate to the American Heart Association click here.