Aniston Burnett named American Heart Association Tri-City Teen of Impact recipient

Bristol, Tennessee, April 9, 2024 — Aniston Barnett, known locally as the Queen of Hearts, for raising funds and awareness in the fight against heart disease and stroke to improve the health and well-being of her community, American Heart Association Tri-Cities 2024 Selected as a Teen of Impact Award Winner. .

Aniston raised a Tri-City market record $65,000 during the campaign and was named this year’s winner. She was crowned the 2024 Queen of Hearts at a gala ceremony held at the Southwest Virginia Center for Higher Education on Thursday, April 4th.

Over nine weeks, four teenagers from Bristol took part in community awareness and fundraising activities and competed for the title of Queen of Hearts. In her junior year at Tennessee High School, Aniston hosted both a fashion show and a pickleball tournament.

Cardiovascular disease remains the number one cause of death in the United States. The Queen of Hearts Initiative brings together her Gen Z champions from across the Tri-Cities who are dedicated to changing this statistic.

“It is imperative that the next generation of lifesavers lead by example to take charge of their heart health and ensure longer, healthier lives in all communities,” said Greater Knoxville/Tri-City American Heart Association Executive Director Bev Miller said. “The future of the Tri-Cities is bright because of advocates like Aniston.”

“For me, as a young person in the community, it is very important to me that I can change the narrative and inspire others. I can reach far and wide and use my passion to change the world. ,” Aniston said.

Four teenagers in Bristol have been nominated to take part in this year’s Queen of Hearts campaign. In total, candidates raised $72,650 to support the American Heart Association’s important work in the Tri-Cities.

Other local candidates include:

• Claire Schweitzer, John S. Battle High School senior, first place
• Carly Keeney, Virginia High School sophomore
• Paris Martin, Virginia High School senior

Heart disease and stroke can affect anyone at any age. Passionate teens like those involved in Teen of Impact are leading the way for this next generation to live longer, healthier lives. For more information about joining a Teen of Impact campaign near you, visit teenofimpact.heart.org.

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association works tirelessly to help the world live longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with thousands of organizations and the power of millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for public health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. In 2024, our 100th anniversary, we celebrate our rich 100 years of history and achievements. As we move forward into his second century of bold discovery and impact, our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. heart.org, Facebook, X Or call 1-800-AHA-USA1.

Media inquiries:

Shannon Smith, Director of Marketing and Communications, Tri-Cities/Knoxville

ShannonC.Smith@heart.org