The Pike County Heart Association got closer to a cure with each step taken at the Heart Walk at Troy Parks and Recreation.

“We had a wonderful turn out,” said Elizabeth Mitchell, chairman of the Pike County Heart Association. “Probably more than we had last year.”

Last year’s Heart Walk raised $36,000, and they hope to raise just as much money, if not more. They will know the final amount in a few weeks.

“We will let everyone know as soon as we know,” Mitchell said.

According to Mitchell, approximately 300 people attended this year’s Heart Walk.

“Walmart Distribution has been a big help,” Mitchell said. Team members from Walmart Distribution were participating and will be making a donation as a company.

Survivors walked the first lap of the night, carrying a torch to symbolize their victory of overcoming heart disease. After the first lap, other participants that have not suffered through heart disease joined them in the walk.

“I do as much as I can,” said Kailly Jernigan, one of the participants. “My best friend’s mom passed away. She had heart issues.” Jernigan has participated for a long time and will “definitely” continue to help the cause.

“I think it’s just a good event,” said Justin Vann, a supporter of the event. “People coming out that survived heart disease are here to support their family and each other and to try to prevent it themselves.”

The Heart Walk is more than just putting one foot in front of the other. There are activities for kids, entertainment, booths from local merchants and food.

“Each person that is walking and wants to be eligible for a prize has to visit those venders and find out what their company does,” Mitchell said. “We just appreciate all the merchants around Troy that have supported us and made this event possible.

“We had a good time.”