Phoebe Sumter highlights lifesaving cardiac initiatives at annual Heart Walk & Run
Americus, GA – Phoebe Sumter Medical Center (PSMC) hosted its annual Heart Walk & Run on Saturday, February 21, at the Mattie H. Marshall Walking Trail on the PSMC campus. The event brought the community together to raise awareness about heart disease and to recognize the expanding impact of cardiac emergency preparedness across the region.
A major emphasis of this year’s event is the lifesaving work of The Cole Varnum Agency, founded in memory of Cole Varnum who died at age 21 from sudden cardiac arrest. Since 2019, The Cole Varnum Agency has expanded its reach by sponsoring community CPR/AED training with the Americus Fire Department, assisting nearby fire departments with training funds, and donating 15 AEDs (automated external defibrillators) to local organizations. Those AEDs have already made a lifesaving difference during cardiac emergencies at a church and a gym.
To support this mission, Phoebe Sumter purchased four new AEDs using Georgia HEART rural hospital tax credit funds. These AEDs were donated to The Cole Varnum Agency for placement throughout the community in locations identified as high need.
“We’re so grateful for the donation of these new AEDs, which will allow us to serve those on our waiting list even faster. Our community continues to rally behind this cause, from generous partners to those who join us at our annual 5K and together, we’re building safer, more prepared communities,” said Charley Varnum, Cole’s sister and Cole Varnum Agency Founder.
“Supporting accessible heart‑health resources is central to who we are. Knowing that two lives were saved because AEDs were close at hand is incredibly meaningful. The Cole Varnum Agency continues to make a tremendous impact, and using Georgia HEART funds to place additional AEDs will help protect even more individuals across our region,” said Carlyle Walton, Phoebe Sumter Medical Center President.
In recognition of her leadership and advocacy, Phoebe Sumter presented Varnum with a Certificate of Appreciation during the Heart Walk & Run. The honor reflects her dedication to improving cardiac preparedness and carrying forward her brother’s legacy through service to the community.
“Every time we place an AED, we’re honoring Cole by giving someone a chance to survive. Thanks to the incredible support from Phoebe Sumter, we’ve been able to double our impact in just one year,” said Varnum said.
Participants also heard from Dr. Jordan Simmons, Cardiologist at Phoebe Cardiology of Americus, who spoke about the lifesaving importance of AEDs and rapid cardiac intervention.
“Immediate access to an AED dramatically increases a person’s chance of surviving cardiac arrest. Seeing two confirmed saves in our community in one year is extraordinary, and it shows exactly why this work matters,” said Dr. Simmons.
In addition to emphasizing the importance of AED access, Dr. Simmons notes that everyday habits play a crucial role in preventing cardiac emergencies. She recommends maintaining a heart‑healthy lifestyle by engaging in regular physical activity, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and managing key risk factors such as high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol. Reducing sodium intake and avoiding tobacco use can also significantly lower the risk of heart disease.
“Cardiac emergencies often happen without warning, which is why prevention is just as important as rapid response. Making small, consistent lifestyle choices like staying active, eating heart‑healthy foods, and knowing your blood pressure can dramatically reduce a person’s chance of experiencing a cardiac event,” said Dr. Simmons.
The Cole Varnum Agency will hold its 7th Annual Heart & Sole 5K fundraising race on Saturday, September 19 at 8:00 a.m. at Central Baptist Church in Americus. Registration information will be released in the coming months. Follow The Cole Varnum Agency on Facebook to learn more.
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