Heart Month: Gratitude, Awareness & Action for a Healthier Community
2/10/2026
February is American Heart Month, a time when the Crossroads area focuses on heart health, prevention and the simple actions that can save lives. Here in Victoria, I have the privilege of witnessing those life-saving efforts in action every day at DeTar Healthcare System.
Heart disease remains the number one cause of death for both men and women in the United States. The encouraging news is that most heart disease is preventable. In fact, up to 80% of heart disease can be prevented through healthy lifestyle choices and early detection. That’s why education and awareness are at the center of everything we do at DeTar this month—and throughout the year.
I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the extraordinary physicians, nurses, cardiovascular professionals, staff members and volunteers who have dedicated their time and knowledge to raising awareness and educating our community. From teaching Hands-Only CPR to helping families recognize the signs of heart attack and stroke, the team is committed to empowering others with knowledge that can make all the difference in those critical first minutes.
Our recent Heart Health Expo was a powerful example of what happens when healthcare professionals and community members come together with a shared purpose. The turnout and engagement were inspiring. Equally inspiring was the incredible showing by Team DeTar at the 2026 Crossroads Heart and Stroke Walk, where employees and supporters walked side by side to champion heart health beyond the walls of our hospitals.
At DeTar, the cardiac care team works every day to help prevent, diagnose and treat heart disease—from routine screenings to life-saving procedures. We encourage everyone in our community to “know your numbers,” including blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar and weight. These simple measures can provide early warning signs and create opportunities to intervene before a serious event occurs.
Our commitment to advanced heart care is also reflected in the technology and certifications we bring to Victoria. DeTar offers advanced cardiac care, including leadless pacemakers that help improve recovery and outcomes for patients. We are proud to be a Primary Stroke Center certified by The Joint Commission and an Accredited Chest Pain Center by the American College of Cardiology—distinctions that reflect the quality and readiness of care available right here at home.
These efforts demonstrate that Heart Month is more than participation in events. It is a reflection of our ongoing responsibility to educate, prevent and care for our community year-round.
On behalf of DeTar Healthcare System, thank you to the team and to the Victoria community for making Heart Month meaningful, impactful and full of heart.
Brett Maxfield
Chief Executive Officer
DeTar Healthcare System
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