Considered the most crucial organ and essential for survival, the heart serves as the body’s central pump, continuously circulating oxygen and nutrient-rich blood to every cell, tissue and organ.
Unfortunately, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control Prevention, with someone dying of cardiovascular disease every 33 seconds, primarily from heart attacks and strokes.
While some types of heart disease like coronary artery disease (CAD) are not fully reversible, their progression can often be slowed, stopped or even partially reversed through aggressive lifestyle changes like a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress reduction and no smoking, as well as medical treatments like medication and cardiac rehabilitation, which can significantly improve heart function and quality of life, particularly in early stages of the disease.
“Fortunately, a considerable part of heart health is completely in your control,” says Brenda Ivory, Chief Executive Officer, South Texas Health System (STHS) Heart. “Every time you eat a vegetable or go for a walk, you take a small step toward helping your heart. Often, if you can make healthy lifestyle choices and couple them with medical treatments, you can greatly decrease your symptoms and add years to your life.”
In observance of American Heart Month and to help educate the community on the importance of heart-healthy behaviors like regular physical activity and a well-balanced diet, STHS Heart – home to the Valley’s only freestanding cardiac hospital and dedicated heart emergency room – will host its 12th annual Heroes with Heart 5K Walk/Run on Saturday, February 28, 2026, on the STHS Heart campus in McAllen.
Open to the community, this year’s 5K will honor Rio Grande Valley service industry professionals who have survived and thrived in their battle with heart disease as this year’s Heroes with Heart.
“Studies show that service industry professionals, especially those in accommodation, food service, administrative and support roles, face higher heart disease risks due to factors like long hours, high stress and demanding customer interactions, which are linked to increased heart rhythm problems,” says Tom Castañeda, System Director of Marketing & Public Relations, STHS. “Ultimately, they face higher rates of high blood pressure, cholesterol, obesity and Type 2 diabetes, all major risk factors for heart disease.”
To encourage the community to take heed of their heart health, service industry professionals from across the Valley will be serving as this year’s official 5K ambassadors and sharing their own personal struggles with heart disease following the race.
Registration is open now through February 20, with a discounted rate of $25 for early registration before January 23. Additional discounts are available for children under the age of 12, seniors over 55 and teams of 20 or more. The cost of registration includes a T-shirt, bib and a participation medal, with all proceeds benefiting Goodwill’s free education and training programs in the four-county region.
By taking part in STHS Heart’s Heroes with Heart 5K, no matter whether you walk or run, you’ll be helping shine a spotlight on a serious health issue impacting people of all ages in the Valley while taking steps to protect your own heart health!
For complete race details and to register, visit sthsactive.com. For more information, contact the STHS Marketing Department at 956-388-2020 or sthsmarketing@uhsinc.com.
Who: South Texas Health System Heart
What: Heroes with Heart 5K Run/Walk
When: Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 7:30 a.m.
Where: South Texas Health System Heart 1900 South D Street McAllen, TX 78503
About South Texas Health System
South Texas Health System is a multi-facility healthcare system serving patients throughout the Rio Grande Valley. The system includes four acute care facility campuses with specialties in pediatrics, heart and vascular services, maternity and women’s health and trauma services. Inpatient and outpatient treatment for behavioral health needs and addictive disorders is also provided through the system's South Texas Health System Behavioral facility. South Texas Health System is affiliated with the South Texas Clinical Partners ACO, Prominence Health Plan, and Cornerstone Regional Hospital. The system operates an advanced Level I Trauma Center at South Texas Health System McAllen, the first freestanding children’s facility and pediatric ER at South Texas Health System Children’s, the region’s only freestanding heart hospital and specialized cardiac ER at South Texas Health System Heart, and seven freestanding emergency departments located in and around Weslaco, Mission, Edinburg, McAllen, Pharr and Alamo. For more information about the system and its comprehensive services, please visit www.southtexashealthsystem.com.
