Cuero Regional Hospital will host an educational booth highlighting its Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Program at the 2026 Heart Health Expo at the Victoria Community Center Dome Thursday, Feb. 5, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event sponsored by DeTar Healthcare System is a free, expanded community event designed to educate, screen and empower residents to take proactive steps toward better cardiovascular health. It will bring together healthcare providers, community organizations, local businesses and area rural hospitals to share education, screenings and services available across the region. The program supports patients recovering from heart-related conditions through medically supervised exercise, heart-healthy education and lifestyle guidance designed to improve endurance, reduce risk factors and support longterm cardiovascular wellness. Cuero Regional Hospital CEO Lynn Falcone said the medical facility is dedicated to delivering services to the region. While we are a rural healthcare organization, the level of cardiac care we provide is comprehensive and rooted in excellence, Falcone said. Our participation in the Crossroads Heart Expo re-Tects our dedication to delivering heart care services, including cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, and supporting the longterm heart health of our community. A major focus of the event is helping attendees know their numbers, a critical step in preventing and managing heart disease. Free health screenings will include cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar and additional cardiovascular risk assessments, giving participants valuable insight into key indicators that can signal potential heart health concerns. Healthcare professionals will be available on site to help attendees understand their screening results, explain what the numbers mean and offer guidance on next steps, lifestyle changes and followup care when needed. In addition to Cuero Regional Hospital, rural hospitals throughout the Crossroads have been invited to participate, offering attendees the opportunity to learn about heart health services and resources available close to home. Organizers say the goal is to help community members better understand the many regional options available to support them on their personal journey to heart health. Heart disease continues to impact families throughout our region, and education and prevention are critical, said Brett MaxSeld, Chief Executive OfScer of DeTar Healthcare System. De- Tar’s Heart Health Expo reflects our commitment to strengthening the health of our community by bringing together providers from across the Crossroads to share resources, expertise and practical tools that empower individuals to take control of their heart health.”
Beyond screenings, the expo will feature chest pain and stroke awareness education, hands-only CPR training, interactive demonstrations, health vendor exhibits and door prize drawings throughout the day.
According to Jolene Balboa, Director of Cardiovascular Services at DeTar, the continued growth of the event prompted the move to a larger venue.
“This event has expanded every year as more members of our community seek education and preventive care,” Balboa said. “Moving to the Victoria Community Center allows us to reach more people, expand our screenings and educational offerings, and make attending easier for individuals, families and employers across the Crossroads.”
DeTar leaders also note the Heart Health Expo serves as a kickoff to a broader week of heart health awareness across the region.
“The first week of February creates a powerful opportunity to rally our community around heart health,” said Emily Weatherly, Director of Marketing at De-Tar Healthcare System. “With DeTar’s Heart Health Expo on Thursday, Go Red for Women Day on Friday, and the Crossroads Heart & Stroke Walk on Saturday, we are helping residents start American Heart Month with education, action and awareness.”
Event Schedule 9 – 11 a.m.
Health Screenings & Educational Booths Location: Dome 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
VPD Heart Health Lunch & Learn Location: Community Center Annex Sponsored by DeTar Healthcare System. This free heart health educational event includes lunch.
11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
DeTar’s “Strong Hearts Start at Work” Victoria Chamber of Commerce Luncheon Location: Dome
