Event co-chair Kevin Lewis of Maine Community Health Options, with reporter Morgan Sturdivant of WMTW Channel 8.

The 16th annual Central Maine Heart Walk took place on September 14 in Lewiston-Auburn and Rumford to benefit the life-saving research and education of the American Heart Association (AHA). The AHA’s largest event in Central Maine, the flagship walk in Lewiston-Auburn drew approximately 1,200 walkers, who together raised over $127,500.

Tina Legere, President of Central Maine Medical Center, and Kevin Lewis, Chief Executive Officer of Maine Community Health Options, were the 2014 Heart Walk Co-Chairs. The top fundraising company teams were Central Maine Medical Center, who raised over $14,400, followed by TD Bank, Oxford Networks, and Maine Community Health Options. The top individual fundraiser was Adam Dunbar of Wells Fargo Advisors, who raised close to $9,300.

Michele Bolduc of Champoux Insurance received the 2014 Lifestyle Change Award. She was nominated by her co-worker and friend, Kacey LePage, for making healthy lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, eating healthier and walking more. LePage said Bolduc has also inspired her co-workers, family members and friends to take on healthier lifestyles by motivating them to make similar changes.

John Giard of TD Bank addressed the crowd to share his lifelong struggle with heart disease. “The fact that I am here today is a result of the work of the Heart Association,” he said. “It’s safe to say that everyone at this event probably knows someone who has been affected by this disease. The support that you give to the Heart Association not only helps the individuals that are afflicted with the disease but their families, friends, and coworkers.”

The event was made possible by the 2014 Heart Walk Executive Committee, which included Jim Bouchard of Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice, Adam Dunbar of Wells Fargo Advisors, Jeff Gosselin of Mechanics Savings Bank, Matt Jancovic of Oxford Networks, Laurie Kane-Lewis, DFD of Russell Medical Center, Susan Keiler of St. Mary’s Health System, Cindie Rice of Central Maine Medical Center, Ashlee Vandiver of Sandcastle and L/A Hearing, and Auburn Mayor Jonathan Labonte.

Some additional events, including a comedy night in October in the Lewiston-Auburn area, are being planned to help the AHA reach its $160,000 fundraising goal. Donations are still being accepted. To make a donation, call the AHA Maine office at (207) 879-5700 or see www.centralmaineheartwalk.org.