WHEELING, WV, January 19, 2024 - Five prominent local women will help advance heart health and raise lifesaving funds to fight their No. 1 health threat with the American Heart Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, as members of its Ohio Valley 2024 Woman of Impact class. Now three years into the campaign, this class is the largest yet.

Each year a select group of individuals across the Ohio Valley are nominated by their peers to become an American Heart Association Woman of Impact because of their passion and drive to make a difference in the community and raise awareness of women’s cardiovascular health.

“Cardiovascular disease remains our No. 1 killer so it’s vital for all women to take charge of their heart health and encourage others to do the same,” said Lauren Thomas, Development Director for the American Heart Association. “While we’ve made some great strides over the years, we still have a long way to go. For example, American Heart Association surveys have found younger generations of women, Gen Z and Millennials, are less likely than prior generations to be aware that cardiovascular disease is their greatest health threat.[1] We must raise our voices and make sure all Ohio Valley women know how to take steps now to protect our heart later.”

Woman of Impact is an extension of the American Heart Association’s long-standing Go Red for Women movement, 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 large majority of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease continues to take the life of 1 in 3 women. In West Virginia, heart disease claims over 5,120 lives annually.

Beginning on National Wear Red Day, Feb. 2, 2024, hundreds of Woman of Impact nominees nationwide embark on a 9-week journey to help transform the health of women. Each week, nominees and their Impact Teams, made up of friends or family members, participate in activities designed to create a culture of wellness and health equity. Activities may include educational events, learning and spreading the word about CPR, getting active, recruiting women to participate in research, and more. Nominees and their Impact Teams also raise critical funds for the Ohio Valley American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement.

In April, the woman whose team has the highest number of impact points — awarded through a combination of fundraising and mission impact activities — is named the Ohio Valley 2024 Woman of Impact Award Winner. The nominee with the most points nationwide will be named the National Woman of Impact Award Winner.

The Ohio Valley’s 2024 Woman of Impact Nominees are:

  • Andrea Trio: Principal, Madison Elementary
  • Jaime Baker: On-air personality, WTOV 9
  • Melissa Burkett, RN BSN CCRN: WVU Medicine
  • Peg Riccadonna: Owner, The Snooty Pooch
  • Wendy Anderson: Director, St. Clairsville Area Chamber

“By using their influence, their local networks and their unique lived experiences, these volunteers are able to make a measurable difference in the Ohio Valley and we are so grateful for each of them,” said Thomas. “Woman of Impact truly embodies the power of coming together to create important and lasting change for good.”

To learn more about the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement in the Ohio Valley, visit http://www2.heart.org/OhioValleyWVWOI.

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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:
Kevin Pauley: kevin.pauley@heart.org