SAN ANTONIO, March 5, 2026 – The American Heart Association, devoted to changing the future to a world of healthier lives for all, hosted its 21st Vestido Rojo event for local Hispanic women on Saturday Feb. 28 at St. Paul Community Center. Approximately 400 women attend the free event, made possible by Methodist Healthcare Ministries.

Vestido Rojo, meaning “red dress,” is a bilingual English and Spanish-language event that was founded in San Antonio. This event is a part of the Go Red for Women® movement, raising awareness and education of women's cardiovascular health. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women[1], yet less than half of women are aware of this.

With a focus on hypertension, a leading risk factor of heart attacks and strokes, this year’s Vestido Rojo emphasized the importance of knowing your numbers and regularly monitoring your blood pressure. Local sponsor, the Woodbury Foundation, also provided blood pressure cuffs to event attendees to encourage continued monitoring at home.

“Cardiovascular disease can impact women of all ages, including those close to you. Our goal is to motivate, inform and empower women throughout San Antonio to understand the risks and take charge of their health,” said Loren Reyes, San Antonio Go Red for Women development director.

Vestido Rojo has always been a celebration of San Antonio’s vibrant Hispanic community. This year’s engaging event had a variety of health focused activities including presentations by health experts from CommuniCare, YMCA of Greater San Antonio, and University of Incarnate Word; health screenings, Hands-Only CPR demonstrations, a survivor tribute wall, table decorating contest, and a surprise performance by Rayburn Middle School Mariachi Band.

At the heart of the event were the Madrinas – women in the community who are passionate about their health and the health of their community. The Association recruited more than 40 Madrinas, who invited friends and family to attend. April Monterrosa, publisher of LIVE from the Southside served as Emcee. Vestido Rojo closed out Heart Month but continues the mission of the American Heart Association in the San Antonio community.

Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health and San Antonio Vestido Rojo is locally sponsored by Methodist Healthcare Ministries.

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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

About Go Red for Women® 

The American Heart Association’s signature initiative, Go Red for Women®, is a comprehensive platform designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally. While the majority of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women. For more than two decades, Go Red for Women has encouraged awareness. The movement harnesses the energy, passion and power of women to band together and collectively wipe out heart disease. It challenges them to know their risk for heart disease and take action to reduce their personal risk. It also gives them tools they need to lead a heart healthy life. The Go Red for Women movement is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, with additional support from national cause supporters. For more information, please visit GoRedforWomen.org or call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721).

 

For Media Inquiries:

Reyna Caraveo: reyna.caraveo@heart.org

Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org