Do It For Them; Start Now

Our average reader is 47.5 years old, makes an annual income of $166,000 and is twice as likely to die from heart disease as someone just 10 years younger. The risks escalate with age, stress and a poor diet — not to mention smoking. Most of you, our readers, already know this, but high-octane business schedules can make lifestyle changes difficult.

That’s why, on the heels of the American Heart Association’s annual Heart Walk in Fayetteville, we felt a little reminder was in order. The next time you consider addressing your cardiovascular health, remember Jauan Arnold, 7, and Braydon Butler, 18 months old.

The two honored their grandfather, the late R.D. “Pa Pa” Arnold of Gravette, by participating May 19 in the event. R.D. died last June 16, the week of Father’s Day, at 56.

“He used to race me and throw me on the couch,” Jauan said. “I miss him.”

The event’s theme hit home even harder the next morning. Melissa Arnold and Larry Butler, the boys’ parents (employees of Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and Atlantic Southeast Airlines, respectively), learned that another family member had succumb to a heart attack.

Melissa’s brother, Randy Arnold of Stuttgart, died at 35.

One day after the Heart Walk, the family made a heavy-hearted trip to the Arkansas Delta.

During the minute it’s taken to read this editorial, heart disease has claimed two more lives in America. Last year, it killed 890 in Benton and Washington counties. On May 20, it hit yet another local family.

Don’t be a statistic. Make those changes. We like having you around.