The Syracuse Heart Challenge returned Saturday in person this year. This is the American Heart Association’s biggest fundraiser in Central New York bringing thousands of New Yorkers who raised money and walked together to support those with heart diseases.

Chloe Burian was just 3-years-old when she was diagnosed with Marfan syndrome.

“We started walking for my mom because she died of a massive stroke,” Chloe’s mom, Audrey Burian, said. “And then Chloe got diagnosed with Marfan syndrome about a year later, so we started Chloe’s Courage.” 

The inherited disease affects the heart, eyes, blood vessels and bones.

“Chloe’s had so many surgeries, she’s had eight surgeries,” Audrey said.

This is the first time in a while that they have been able to walk outside.

“It feels honestly amazing,” Chloe said. “Some of the years I have been in a wheelchair so I haven’t been able to walk.” 

Family and friends came from all over the state to walk with Chloe.

“To have the family with us, it’s really kind of kept us going because Chloe’s heart is struggling,” Audrey said. “She has so many obstacles to go through. So to have family and friends be there for us, it means the world to us.”

“It’s great to have all my friends support me and my little sister through this all,” Chloe said. “It’s just great to have them by her side.”

I’m just so proud of how far she’s come,” Chloe’s sister, Abby Burian, said. “As a person, she’s been so confident. She enjoys everything she dos so much and I’m just so proud of how far she’s come.” 

But Chloe’s family says the cause is greater than just her.

“We just know that if we can help raise awareness and save a life, that we feel like we’ve given something back,” Audrey said. “She inspires me every single day as a mom.”  

Chloe’s family had a goal to raise $2,500 this year. With the community’s support, they far surpassed that goal, raising about $4,000.