CHARLESTON, SC, May 4, 2026 — Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the No. 1 killer of women in the United States, yet less than half of women are aware it is their greatest health threat, according to the American Heart Association. Two local individuals are working to change that—turning their passion into action to build a healthier Lowcountry while raising critical funds to support the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association.

Allison Stoney has been named the 2026 Charleston Woman of Impact winner and Kallie Long has been named the 2026 Charleston Teen of Impact winner. The American Heart Association, devoted to changing the future to a world of healthier lives for all, is celebrating winners in over 160 communities across the nation. These women led campaigns that made a meaningful impact by raising awareness for heart health and funds for lifesaving research, advocacy and education.

The Woman of Impact and Teen of Impact campaigns launched on National Wear Red Day, Friday, Feb. 6. The Charleston nominees focused on raising awareness of the American Heart Association’s mission through Hands-Only CPR, blood pressure education and community outreach. Collectively, they raised more than $160,000 to support the vital work of the American Heart Association.

Allison Stoney, a wife, mother, and retired AT&T executive, has leveraged her personal health journey to fuel her campaign. After surviving a stroke in 2017, she now shares her story of resilience to help other women advocate for their own health. Allison had the highest total impact for a Woman of Impact nominee in the Southeast Region of the American Heart Association. 

“It was important for me to participate in Woman of Impact because as a stroke survivor, I know the importance of women’s health,” said Stoney. “I am honored to have received this recognition and am excited to continue working alongside the American Heart Association and Go Red for Women to help more women know their risk factors and get the support they need to live longer, healthier lives.”

Kallie Long, a student at Bishop England High School, understands the importance of education and awareness. Inspired by her mother and grandfather’s heart health journeys, she is passionate about helping others take steps to protect their own health.

“My mom and “Poppy” are my why. Because of advances in medicine and technology, my family has been given more time together. This is why it was so important for me to participate in Teen of Impact,” said Long. “I am honored to be named the Charleston winner and thankful for the opportunities this campaign has given me. My work with the American Heart Association will not stop here. I’m passionate about ensuring my friends and family are inspired to live heart-healthy lives.”

Eight nominees competed in the American Heart Association’s Woman of Impact™ and Teen of Impact™ campaigns in Charleston. Each nominee supported the Heart Association in its fight against the nation’s No. 1 health threat, cardiovascular disease. The Woman of Impact campaign, part of the Heart Association’s Go Red for Women® movement, specifically focuses on improving women’s health, while Teen of Impact empowers the next generation to change the future of heart health.

“Advocates like Allison, Kallie and all of our nominees are making a lasting impact in the Lowcountry,” said Hillary Blevins, volunteer chair of the Charleston Go Red for Women campaign. “Together, we have the power to fund more lifesaving research and educate women and teens on how they can take steps now to protect their hearts to help create a future of longer, healthier lives for all.”

Local Woman of Impact nominees included:

  • Jenn Alger, Fundraise Up
  • Kenzie Baldwin, Adams Property Group
  • Tori Rhea, Rhea & Hattaway Family Law
  • Niki Smith, Charleston County School District
  • Betty Jo Sneed, SouthState Bank
  • Allison Stoney, Retired, AT&T

Local Teen of Impact nominees included:

  • Kallie Long, Bishop England High School
  • Vera Nathan, Wando High School

All nominees will be recognized at the Charleston Go Red for Women Luncheon on May 21. To learn more about the American Heart Association in Charleston, visit heart.org/SouthCarolina or email CharlestonSC@Heart.org

 

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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:

Jessica Rodgers: Jessica.Rodgers@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org