Community Impact UConn Health

September 24, 2024 | Combined Reports

UConn Health Students Volunteer for a Heart-Healthy Cause

UConn Medical and Dental Students Volunteered at the Adult Congenital Heart Association Annual Connecticut Walk for 1 in 100 on September 14 in West Hartford’s Blue Back Square.

Connecticut Walk for 1 in 100 in West Hartford on September 14.

UConn medical and dental students united for a good cause to volunteer at the fourth annual Connecticut Walk for 1 in 100 in West Hartford on September 14.

Connecticut Walk for 1 in 100“It was an extremely great turnout with over 300 walkers. We raised over $62,000!” reports Ire Opayemi, a medical student at UConn School of Medicine in the Class of 2025 who is pursuing a dual MD/MPH degree. “I think it was a great show of how much UConn Health students are involved in the community which we serve and how we’re spreading awareness of CHD.”

Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are the most common type of birth defect in the United States, affecting nearly 1 in 100 babies each year. Despite this prevalence, CHD research and programs are severely underfunded.

The UConn Health students participated in the 1-mile walk around downtown West Hartford. The Connecticut Walk for 1 in 100 was one of 15 similar events ACHA is hosting nationwide this year to raise funds for greater family and community outreach, education, and research.

“The Adult Congenital Heart Association is an incredible organization that has done so much for the community by providing vital education and support groups for those living with congenital heart disease. As UConn medical and dental students, we’re working to show that we care deeply about those living with congenital heart disease and are committed to increasing awareness within the broader community,” shared UConn’s Opayemi.

Connecticut Walk for 1 in 100 in West Hartford on September 14. He added, “We’re also aiming to enhance providers’ understanding of congenital heart disease, inspiring some to specialize in this field and ensuring that all have the experience to connect with and relate to these patients in their care. This year, we’ve seen tremendous engagement, not just from students but from the local community as well. We’re all coming together to show we truly care about supporting and empowering people with congenital heart disease.”

Funds generated from the Connecticut Walk support the ACHA Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD) Accreditation Program, which is working to elevate and standardize care for the ACHD population nationwide. In addition, Walk for 1 in 100 helps to fund cutting-edge medical research, advocacy efforts and various educational and outreach initiatives.

Connecticut Walk for 1 in 100.