On September 19, the Aquinas Cheer Team exercised its effervescent spirit to assist the American Heart Association with "Start! Heart Walk" at Riverside Park in Grand Rapids. The cheerleaders helped with logistics, cheered on the 3,000 participants and even gave a media interview with Grand Rapids radio personalities Tommy and Brook of Star 105.7 FM.

"The cheer team was thrilled to be asked to volunteer for the second year in a row at the Heart Walk," said Emma Powell, coach of the AQ Cheer Team. "Using their energy and spirit to excite and encourage the walkers is exactly what the event needed. And, the team had a great time!

Cindy Bouma, communications director for the American Heart Association, said the Cheer Team went above and beyond the call of duty, and stated that "Aquinas should be really proud of their Cheer Squad since they have been so generous with their time and talents."

The American Heart Association "Start! Heart Walk" supports the maxim that walking and eating well are the keys to longevity and raises funds to support heart disease research, stroke research and area educational programs.