CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas, May 24, 2024 – Sara Azali, a builder with Azali Homes in the Coastal Bend, has been named the 2024 Corpus Christi Woman of Impact Award Winner. The recognition by the American Heart Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, is awarded annually to the Woman of Impact nominee who earns the most points during a 9-week fundraising and heart health education drive.
Each year, women are nominated by their peers to embark on a journey starting on National Wear Red Day in February and culminating on April 6 to earn the local title. In addition to raising funds, nominees participate in activities designed to create a culture of wellness and advance health equity. Activities may include educational events, learning and spreading the word about CPR, getting physically active, recruiting women to participate in research and more.
Azali garnered more 140,000 points and raised nearly $102,000 for the American Heart Association’s long-standing Go Red for Women® movement. She was one of six women in the SouthWest Region (Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Wyoming and Colorado) to earn more than 100,000 points, placing her in the Centennial Club.
“I’m grateful to the entire Coastal Bend community for its generous support of the American Heart Association’s ongoing fight to reduce cardiovascular disease in women,” it is a true testament to the incredible people that reside in this city!”
Kalen Perez, a registered nurse and Corpus Christi business owner, earned more than 50,000 points, giving her a spot in the Changemaker Club. Nora Brizuela, a professional photographer and studio marketing director for Shoocha Photography, and Celina López Leon, an attorney and managing partner with Leon Law, P.L.L.C. , also participated in the Woman of Impact. Collectively, this year’s Corpus Christi nominees and their Impact Teams made up of friends, family and personal connections raised about $200,000 for the American Heart Association’s Corpus Christi Go Red for Women movement.
“We are so grateful to Sara and to all of our nominees for their work elevating the Go Red for Women message and raising critical funds in support of our local mission,” said Adriana Martinez, development director for Corpus Christi Go Red. “While our work is far from finished, we’ve made considerable progress in women’s heart health awareness. With advocates like Sara and our other Woman of Impact nominees leading the way, our city is stronger and our future is brighter.”
While a large majority of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease continues to be a woman’s greatest health threat, taking the life of 1 in 3 women. Research published by the American Heart Association shows that younger women, particularly Millennials and Gen Z may not be aware of their risk for heart disease and stroke[1]. For more information or to get involved visit heart.org/CorpusChristiGoRed
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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 19 years, 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).
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries
Cyd King: M 479.263.8473; cyd.king@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org