Go Red for Women Event Helps Battle Heart Disease, Strokes

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women, cardiovascular disease continues to be the leading cause of death for women, yet the majority of cardiac events can be prevented.

More than 150 people are expected to be decked out in red at the area’s annual Tri-County Go Red for Women celebration March 9.

Go Red events through the American Heart Association raise awareness and funds to help fight against heart disease and stroke.

The signature celebration will be held from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Avalon at Squaw Creek Country Club and will include an inspirational program highlighting the impact of the association in the community.

Stroke survivor and motivational speaker Cherie L. Eldridge will give the keynote lecture, “Be the Beat for Your Family, Friends, and Community.”

Those attending will be introduced to the 2023 Tri-County Woman of Impact and Teen of Impact nominees and meet local survivors personally touched by heart disease and stroke.

Free blood pressure screenings, the opportunity to learn hands-only CPR, a silent auction and a chance to make a meaningful gift during the Open Your Heart Appeal will be featured at the event.

“We’ve made tremendous progress over the years, but cardiovascular disease is still the No. 1 killer of women, claiming more women’s lives each year than all forms of cancer combined,” said Kerry Reckard, the Go Red for Women co-chair and the 2022 Woman of Impact award winner. “We need to be the change by supporting the Go Red for Women movement and raising the critical funds needed to make an impact on the future of women’s heart health.”

Disproportionately affecting women, especially Black and Hispanic women, heart disease and stroke continue to be the greatest threats to their health. Research shows heart attacks are on the rise among younger women, who are less likely to be aware of the health threat or the signs of a heart attack or stroke.

For 19 years, Go Red for Women has encouraged women to take charge of their heart health and encourage others in their lives to do the same. 

Symptoms are too often dismissed and women are significantly underrepresented in lifesaving research and are less likely to receive the same quality of care as men, including when they need CPR from bystanders, according to the American Heart Association.

“Our goal is to help advance women’s heart health through research, education, awareness and advocacy initiatives in the Tri-County area,” said Go Red for Women co-chair Tracy Governor. “Go Red for Women raises funds to ensure a better future for women right here in our own community.”

CVS Health sponsors the Go Red for Women campaign nationally.

More information about this year’s event is available HERE.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.