To mark World Heart Day on September 29, Madurai Apollo Speciality Hospitals, in collaboration with Suryan FM, organized a large-scale Walkathon aimed at promoting heart health and encouraging a healthier lifestyle. Over 2,000 participants took part in the event, which urged the community to prioritize cardiovascular health and overall well-being.
The Walkathon began at 6:00 AM at Thiyagarajar Arts & Science College, Teppakulam, Madurai, and concluded at Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Madurai at 8:30 AM. The event featured both 3 km and 5 km routes. Participants received T-shirts, bags, refreshments, medals, and certificates, making it both educational and engaging for all ages.
Mr. P. Neelakannan, Chief Operating Officer of Apollo Hospitals – ROTN, hoisted the flag and inaugurated the Walkathon, followed by a special address from Cardiologists Dr. V. Sridhar, Dr. C. Vivek Bose, Dr. P. Subburamakrishnan, Dr. M. Rangamanikandan, General Surgeon Dr.Bennet Raj Mohan and Nephrologist Dr.Arun Prasath, who highlighted the importance of regular screenings and early diagnosis. They emphasized that heart health is crucial for longevity, and events like this serve as a reminder of the significance of preventive care, a balanced diet, and regular exercise for maintaining a healthy heart. Participants also took part in warm-up and Zumba sessions, energizing the crowd and setting a vibrant tone for the day.The event was also graced by the presence of Sports Medicine Specialist Dr. John Benny, Joint Director of Medical Services Dr. Praveen Rajan, and the Marketing General Manager.
Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Madurai, is a leading healthcare institution known for its excellence in cardiology, offering comprehensive and cutting-edge cardiac care. With a team of experienced specialists, the hospital provides a wide range of treatments to help patients manage and overcome heart conditions. Apollo remains committed to promoting health and wellness throughout the region.
Mr. P. Neelakannan, Chief Operating Officer of Apollo Hospitals – ROTN, stated, "Our doctors have transformed Apollo into a national centre of excellence, offering hope and healing to patients not just in India, but across the globe. The numbers speak volumes-over 200,000 cardiac surgeries and 300,000 angioplasties have been successfully performed. We have achieved a remarkable 99.6% success rate in cardiac bypass surgeries, with over 91% of them performed as beating heart surgeries. This exceeds the global average success rate of approximately 98%, demonstrating our consistent leadership and clinical excellence in cardiac care.
I want to express my deepest gratitude and admiration for the remarkable dedication, expertise, and resilience of each of our doctors and cardiology team. It is our doctor’s continued commitment that has established us as a national and international centre of excellence in cardiology.”
The Walkathon concluded with an informative session where healthcare professionals provided tips on lifestyle changes to effectively manage heart health. Through this initiative, Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Madurai, reaffirms its commitment to championing heart health within the community, encouraging individuals to take control of their health and lead a heart-healthy life.