Milwaukee American Heart Association board chair triumphs in fight against No. 1 killer of women
MILWAUKEE, Wisconsin, May 6, 2024 - Brookfield resident Erin Levzow has been named the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women Milwaukee 2024 Woman of Impact Winner for her work to raise funds and spread awareness in the fight against heart disease and stroke in women and improve health and well-being in the local community. In the United States, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women.
Over the course of nine-weeks, Levzow, along with a team of family, friends and colleagues, competed for the Woman of Impact title by participating in various community awareness and fundraising activities.
The Woman of Impact campaign is part of the American Heart Association’s signature Go Red for Women’s movement, a comprehensive platform designed more than two decades ago to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally.
“I am honored to have received this recognition, but most importantly I am so proud of what we as women in Milwaukee have accomplished together over the last nine weeks to support the Go Red for Women movement and the future of women’s heart health,” Levzow said.
The Go Red movement is especially personal for Levzow.
“Having been the chair for Wisconsin for many years, as well as my husband and three kids all suffering from genetic heart issues, with two of the three kids being our daughters, the cause and mission are near and dear to my heart,” she said. “Heart disease is still the number one killer of women, and we absolutely can do something about this. The time is now.”
The Woman of Impact campaign launched in more than 100 cities on National Wear Red Day, Feb. 2. In Milwaukee, four community leaders were nominated to participate. Joining Levzow were Carolyn Culea, Kennedy Dance Center; Laura Freedy, HTC Global, Inc.; and Lindsey West, U.S. Bank.
Women naturally experience unique life stages that increase their risk of developing cardiovascular disease over the course of their lifetime. While the large majority of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease continues to be a woman’s greatest health threat, as nearly 45% of women over age 20 are living with some form of CVD. Women involved in Woman of Impact are paving the way for the future of women’s heart health and enabling more women to live longer and healthier lives.
“We are so grateful to Erin and 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 Milwaukee American Heart Association Vice President, Development Bethany Klein said. “While our work is far from finished, we’ve made considerable progress. Our city is stronger, and our future is brighter.”
To learn more about the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement in Milwaukee, visit www.heart.org/milwaukeegored.
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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.
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:
Dan Truttschel; dan.truttschel@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
