AUSTIN -- The streets of downtown Austin were packed Saturday morning as more than 5,000 people helped raise money for the American Heart Association's Heart Walk. But that may not be the surprising number. Nearly 30% of Austin-area deaths are caused by cardiovascular disease.
"Heart failure affects one in seven people. I know some people who are suffering from heart failure. So I find it very important to come out and support the people that I know, and the people that I don't know," says Jill Altman.
Altman was part of a team from St. Jude Medical that included about 100 people. For others out here, it was even more personal.
"I had a heart attack in September. One of my nurses told me about the heart walk, so I decided to come. My husband had two," said Michelle Bowens.
Bowens was walking with her husband and youngest son. She now focuses on staying healthy with help from her nurse and family.
"It's been really fun getting them into shape and to work out," said her son Gregory.
For the survivors, it is fun to help raise money for a cause so close to their heart.
