SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — Hundreds of people attended the Sioux Falls Heart Walk on Saturday.

This was the first time the Madsen family has taken part in the walk. 9-year-old Camden, who’s undergone dozens of heart surgeries, was the youth ambassador for this year’s event.

“The Heart Association is important to our family. And just with everything he’s been through, he’s had over 40 heart surgeries now. He’s had a stroke. And just a lot of heart things,” said Stacee Madsen, Camden’s mom.

Salem senior hosts grain bin safety simulation

Madsen says the event is a great way to raise awareness because her family knew very little about heart disease before Camden’s medical issues.

The walk raised thousands of dollars, with the money being donated for research, CPR training, and to help end heart disease and stroke.