Walk in West Haven has a Valley twist

Some of the many Griffin Hospital employees who took part in the event strike a pose before the walk.  

On Saturday I took part in a three-mile walk at Savin Rock in West Haven to benefit the American Heart Association.

It was a picture-perfect morning along the shoreline. More than 4,000 people participated to help raise funds and awareness. 

The non-competitive Greater New Haven Heart Walk was coordinated by Patrick Charmel, President and CEO of Griffin Hospital in Derby. 
The theme was Life is Why.

Several oversized beach balls added to the festivities.

Patrick Charmel (standing near the center of the crowd in red T-shirt) as the walk is about to step off.

A fireboat puts on a display while a banner being pulled by a plane says "Life is Why."

I enjoyed my walk with two lovely ladies, Judy Nicolari of Ansonia, left, and her daughter, Lynne Nicolari. 

We took a short break at the half-way point. Here Lynne gives a wave.

And we were happy to bump into a friend, Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce President Bill Purcell along the route.

It certainly was a fun way to get a bit of exercise (and sunburn) while supporting a worthy organization.

Looking forward to next year!