Staff Reports | Community Updates
Abrazo Health is one of five host organizations participating in the 2026 West Valley Heart Walk Torch Journey, an initiative designed to promote CPR education, heart health awareness and community involvement.
The 10-week Torch Journey leads up to the 2026 West Valley Heart Walk on Nov. 14 in Goodyear. During the journey, a ceremonial torch travels among five organizations recognized for their commitment to cardiovascular health and emergency-response education. Abrazo Health will host the torch from Sept. 14-25 before passing it to the next participating organization.
The torch arrived this week at Abrazo West Campus via helicopter from Abrazo Health’s air ambulance partner, Air Methods. Abrazo Health Arizona leaders accepted the torch, marking the start of the organization’s two-week stewardship.
“We’re honored to collect this trophy and encourage employees and community members to promote heart health and encourage broader participation in CPR education. We proudly align with the goal of building communities of lifesavers and increasing bystander preparedness during cardiac emergencies,” Brian Elisco, group CEO of Abrazo Health Arizona, said.
The Torch Journey is intended to raise awareness of cardiac health, CPR training and participation in the American Heart Association’s annual fundraising effort, according to a press release.
“Whether it’s rapid transport for critically ill patients or supporting lifesaving initiatives like this, Air Methods is proud to support the Heart Walk Torch Journey and the collective effort to save lives across Arizona,” Nicola Crim, senior account executive for Air Methods, said.
When cardiac arrest occurs, immediate CPR can help sustain a patient until advanced medical care is available. Abrazo Health provides cardiovascular services throughout the Valley, including specialized cardiac programs and emergency heart care. The system also operates Abrazo Arizona Heart Hospital, one of two dedicated heart hospitals in the Valley.
“We see firsthand how empowering more people to recognize cardiac emergencies and perform lifesaving CPR often makes the difference between life and death and whether a patient reaches the expert care they require at one of our hospitals, when every second counts,” Kimberly Blaha, president and chief administrative officer of Abrazo Arizona Heart Hospital and chair of the 2026 West Valley Heart Walk, said.
When the Torch Journey concludes at the West Valley Heart Walk, the American Heart Association will present the torch on stage to the host organization with the highest fundraising total.
“The torch represents more than a symbol,” Narissa Camacho, executive director of the Greater Phoenix Division of the American Heart Association, said. “It’s a visible reminder that every person can play a role in improving survival from cardiac arrest. Abrazo Health and Air Methods are helping us expand access to CPR education and empowering more people to become lifesavers in their communities.”
Last year, the West Valley Heart Walk raised $315,000, the highest total in the event’s history. Abrazo Health was recognized for contributing the largest number of walkers, with 295 participants among an estimated 8,000 attendees.
