The event brought together dozens of children and parents in a community initiative focused on education, empathy and support for children living with heart conditions.
The walk was organised by local homeschool parent Angie VanElsacker, who envisioned it as both a learning opportunity and a way to stand alongside so called “heart warriors”, children born with cardiac challenges. The idea was inspired by her 5.5 year old daughter Zuza, a member of the group and survivor of multiple heart surgeries.
“Our goal was to teach children about the importance of the heart while fostering empathy for those who face additional health challenges,” VanElsacker said. “By walking together, they learn they can make a real difference in their community.”
Organisers highlighted that roughly one in 100 children worldwide are born with congenital heart disease, conditions that are often not immediately visible. This first year focused entirely on awareness, helping participants better understand the impact of CHD.
The group hopes to make the Heart Walk an annual tradition, with plans to expand from awareness raising to fundraising in support of paediatric cardiac care for children across Vietnam.
The inaugural event was supported by the Honorary Consulate of Poland in Danang, Central Vietnam Realty, Rotary Club of Danang and the local homeschool community.
Organisers described the Danang Heart Walk as a grassroots, family oriented initiative aimed at promoting cardiovascular wellbeing and building a more supportive environment for children in central Vietnam through education and collective action.
