WEST VALLEY — Abrazo Health is proud to be one of five host organizations participating in the 2026 West Valley Heart Walk Torch Journey to spotlight the importance of CPR education, heart health awareness and community involvement in the American Heart Association's lifesaving mission.

The 10-week Torch Journey leads up to the 2026 West Valley Heart Walk on Nov. 14 in Goodyear. During the journey, the ceremonial torch will travel among the five hosts recognized for their commitment to advancing cardiovascular health and emergency response education. Abrazo Health will host the torch Sept. 14-25 before passing it to the next participating host.

The torch arrived via helicopter by Abrazo Health’s air ambulance partner Air Methods at Abrazo West Campus this week, where Abrazo Health AZ leaders took possession of it, kicking off Abrazo’s two-week run with the trophy.

Abrazo Health Group CEO Brian Elisco (right) Abrazo Health Chief Strategy Officer Larry D’Amico (left)

“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,” said Group CEO Brian Elisco, Abrazo Health AZ.

"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," said Nicola Crim, senior account executive, Air Methods.

When cardiac arrest strikes, immediate CPR can begin the critical timeline needed for patients to reach advanced medical care. Abrazo Health, a leader in cardiovascular services, cares for some of the Valley's most complex heart patients through its specialized cardiac programs and emergency heart care capabilities. It also has one of only two dedicated heart hospitals in the Valley at Abrazo Arizona Heart Hospital.

“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,” said Kimberly Blaha, president and chief administrative officer, Abrazo Arizona Heart Hospital, and the 2026 Chair of the West Valley Heart Walk.

"The torch represents more than a symbol," said Narissa Camacho, executive director of the Greater Phoenix division, American Heart Association (AHA). "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."

When the Torch Journey culminates at the West Valley Heart Walk, the AHA will present it on stage to the host organization with the highest fundraising total. Last year, the West Valley Heart Walk achieved record-breaking success raising $315,000 — the highest total in the event’s history. Abrazo Health was recognized for contributing the largest number of walkers, with 295 Abrazo participants among an estimated 8,000 total.

If you’re interested in joining the West Valley Heart Walk or learning more click here.