The Northwest Harris County Heart Walk returns to the Cy-Fair area to celebrate the survivors and honor the victims of heart disease and stroke. The event is organized by the American Heart Association with Lone Star College and Towne Lake also serving as hosts.

The 5k walk begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Lone Star College—CyFair campus on Barker Cypress Road, loops up through Towne Lake and returns back to the college. Breakfast will be served prior to the walk.

The event is noncompetitive and is open to all ages. Strollers and pets on leashes are allowed as well.

After the walk, participants are invited to return to the park for a live DJ, line dancing, kid zone, vendors, contests and live entertainment from the Cy-Fair Dance Team. A special presentation will highlight and honor survivors of heart attack and stroke.

Between 2,000–2,500 people are expected to participate this year, said Tiffany Travis, director of communications with the American Heart Association. The fundraising goal has been set at $310,000.

"The fundraising aspect is important, but the event itself is free and AHA wants everyone to come out and celebrate their heart health," Travis said.

Those interested in donating can do so by either sponsoring runners or giving directly to the AHA online or at the event. Runners who raise $100 receive a T-shirt.

Money raised helps fund technology and research to improve the treatment of heart disease and stroke in the U.S. The walk also gives the AHA a platform to reach out to communities and raise awareness about heart disease, Travis said.

"Heart disease remains the No. 1 health threat to all Americans and 80 percent of cardiovascular disease can be prevented by making healthy lifestyle choices," she said. "Walking has the lowest dropout rate of any exercise, it's free and it's one of the most beneficial things you can do for your heart health."

Travis expressed her gratitude for the support the Heart Walk has gotten in the past from the Cy-Fair community.

"It takes a community of people to come together for a good cause," she said. "The leaders and volunteers here are what make this event a success."

Learn more by visiting the event's website at www.nwharrisheartwalk.org.