VISD Student Wins Heart Health Award
On July 17, during a Victoria Independent School District (VISD) Board meeting, Vickers Elementary student Blayke Harris was honored for her outstanding work in heart health awareness. She received a special award from the American Heart Association’s Kids Heart Challenge.
The Kids Heart Challenge teaches kids about heart health, exercise, and life-saving skills like CPR. Blayke stood out among around 150 schools in the region, raising $3,274. She created informative videos and reached out to family and friends to gather support.
Sonia Marines, a senior director with the American Heart Association in Texas, shared her thoughts on the program. “When I was growing up, we learned things like stop, drop, and roll, but not CPR or how to spot a stroke,” she said. “Kids today need these skills.” Her insight highlights how crucial it is for young people to learn about heart health and emergency responses.
Blayke’s physical education teacher, Stephanie Daniel, was also recognized during the meeting. With over 18 years of teaching experience, she has trained more than 1,000 students in CPR. Marines praised her dedication, saying, “Every year, she goes above and beyond. She truly cares about her students’ health and safety.”
Recent statistics reveal a growing concern for heart health among younger generations. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cardiovascular diseases are becoming more common among youth, with rising rates linked to obesity and sedentary lifestyles. Programs like this aim to combat these trends by spreading knowledge and fostering healthier habits.
VISD also received 23 Anytime CPR Training Kits donated by Citizens Medical Center. These kits will help students practice hands-only CPR, making learning engaging and practical. Marines compared acquiring these skills to learning to drive: “Reading a book about driving is not the same as actually getting behind the wheel.” Practicing with these kits can save lives in emergencies, paving the way for a future filled with skilled young “lifesavers.”
Through efforts like Blayke’s and programs like the Kids Heart Challenge, schools are building a foundation for healthier, more informed students. It’s a win for everyone involved.
Michael Milliorn is a news reporter at the Victoria Advocate. You can reach him at michael.milliorn@vicad.com.
