FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: December 20, 2024
Bolt for the Heart $4M Lifesaving Impact Movement Placing More Than 2,400 AEDs Across Indiana.
Carmel, Indiana – As 2024 comes to a close, Bolt for the Heart (BFTH) celebrates a banner year of community engagement, lifesaving impact, and the successful culmination of its mission to place Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) in communities across Indiana. With a combination of events, partnerships, and generous support, BFTH continues to make Indiana a safer and healthier place to live.
December AED Donation Ceremony
On December 19, Bolt for the Heart held its most recent AED donation ceremony at IU Health North. AEDs were donated to several police departments and sheriff offices across Indiana, enhancing their ability to respond to sudden cardiac events. The departments receiving these lifesaving devices included:
- Indiana State Police
- Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department
- Westfield Police Department
- Delaware County Sheriff Department
- Sheridan Police Department
- Corydon Police Department
- Morgan County Sheriff Department
- Noblesville Police Department
- Coatesville Police Department
This donation is part of BFTH’s ongoing initiative to equip law enforcement vehicles with AEDs, ensuring first responders are prepared to save lives in emergencies.
13th Annual Bolt for the Heart 5K – A Thanksgiving Tradition
The 13th Annual Bolt for the Heart 5K, held on Thanksgiving morning in Carmel, Indiana, was a resounding success, drawing over 2,600 participants—the largest turnout since the COVID-19 pandemic and the second-largest in the event’s history.
In addition to race registrations, participants raised over $14,000 in additional donations to support BFTH’s mission. The event brought together families, friends, and community members to celebrate health, connection, and giving back.
Pierre M. Twer, President of Bolt for the Heart, shared his gratitude:
“Thank you to everyone who participated, sponsored, and volunteered for our 13th annual 5K. While the weather was crisp, the warmth of the community shone through. Our mission to place AEDs in patrol cars and SaveStation outdoor enclosures continues to grow, thanks to your support. This year’s event wasn’t just a race—it was a celebration of life, connection, and hope. From meeting a young man saved by an AED as a teenager to hearing stories of individuals who discovered lifesaving heart conditions because of our race, this event underscores the profound impact we’re making together. We’re already looking forward to making next year even better!”
The event also featured support from local heroes, including the Indiana State Police, Westfield Police, Carmel Police, and Morgan County Sheriff’s Department, who braved the cold to hand out medals at the finish line. The Carmel Fire Department added a special touch with the presentation of the Garrison flag.
OrangeTheory Fitness Partnership
Orangetheory Fitness (OTF) studios played a pivotal role in 2024, raising an incredible $19,241 during November to further BFTH’s mission. These funds contributed to the placement of AEDs and SaveStations in Fishers and Carmel earlier this year, underscoring the ongoing commitment of OTF members to heart health and community safety.
Kaity Wachtel of Orangetheory Fitness expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership:
“We’re proud to rally together as a fitness community to support Bolt for the Heart’s mission. Knowing that our efforts have a direct impact on saving lives motivates us every year. The SaveStations we’ve funded are critical tools in emergencies, and we’re honored to be part of this vital work.”
Sponsors Making an Impact
BFTH’s accomplishments in 2024 were made possible through the generosity of its sponsors:
Presenting Sponsors
- Indiana University Health
- Performance Services
Exclusive AED Provider
- ZOLL Medical
Exclusive SaveStation Provider
- SaveStation
Coffee Sponsor
- Java House Coffee
Media Sponsor
- Current Publishing
Supporting Sponsors
- The City of Carmel
- Hotel Carmichael
- Runners Forum
- McGowan Insurance Group
- The Joe and LeeAnn Muldoon Family
- REI Real Estate Services
- Greg and Janice Elsner
- Play for Jake Foundation
Milestones in 2024
As BFTH reflects on the year, the organization is humbled by the generosity and support of its community. To date, BFTH has raised nearly $4,000,000 and placed over 2,400 AEDs across Indiana. These devices continue to save lives, ensuring that no one is more than a few moments away from lifesaving assistance during a cardiac emergency.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Bolt for the Heart remains steadfast in its mission to equip communities with AEDs and educate the public about the importance of heart health. Plans for 2025 include expanding the SaveStation initiative along Indiana trails, continuing partnerships with law enforcement, and making the 14th Annual Bolt for the Heart 5K the largest event yet.
For more information about Bolt for the Heart, upcoming events, or how to get involved, visit BoltForTheHeart.com.
About Bolt for the Heart:
Bolt for the Heart is a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising funds to place lifesaving AEDs in communities across Indiana. With a mission to increase survival rates for sudden cardiac arrest, BFTH works closely with law enforcement, schools, and community groups to ensure access to AEDs wherever they are needed most.
Media Contact:
Pierre Twer, President of Bolt for the Heart | E. pierre@heartreachmedical.com | C. 317-601-7952
