KRBC Launches "Heartbeat" Campaign

Though deadly, cardiovascular disease can also be prevented. For that reason, KRBC is making a commitment to turn staggering heart disease statistics around.

Over the next year, KRBC plans to present weekly stories along with various announcements and events all aimed at protecting the heart.

"Everyone knows someone who is affected by heart disease," said Nexstar Abilene General Manager Eric Thomas. "Many of us have lost loved ones to cardiovascular problems. We have the opportunity to raise awareness and change that. KRBC couldn't be more excited about this project and its potential to save lives."

As part of the "Heartbeat" kickoff, KRBC is teaming with Abilene Regional Medical Center for a special heart health screening event next week. In fact, the event on February 10 happens to be the world’s first inflatable walk-through heart exhibit and health screening. The heart exhibit is open to the public and will be at United Supermarket located on South 14th. It will run from 10 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. Free blood pressure and pulse oximetry screenings screenings will be provided inside for those who are interested.

And yes, the event happens inside a massive heart! The MEGA Heart™ is a 12-foot tall, 21-foot long, 15-foot wide replica of the human heart that provides visitors with a close-up view of healthy and diseased tissue, artificial valves and a stent, as well as the damage caused by a heart attack. Visitors enter the exhibit through the largest vein that feeds the heart, the superior vena cava, and exit through the largest artery that leaves the heart, the aorta. During the tour, they learn about cardiovascular functions, observe examples of various types of heart disease and read about the latest medical treatments for heart problems.

The is the first of a handful of heart awareness events being planned for 2010.

Additionally, you'll notice KRBC personalities dawning red wardrobes on Friday as part of the American Heart Association's "Go Red" day. KRBC Abilene Today's Megan Dobbs and Chris Whited kicked off the morning in their red and encouraged viewers to do the same.

The annual Go Red for Women luncheon, catered by Abuelo’s, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on Feb. 23 at Abilene Civic Center.