HOLLYWOOD, Fla., Feb. 28, 2024- To kick off February, American Heart Month, nine South Florida women are joining the American Heart Association to fight their number one health threat, cardiovascular disease (CVD) through the Woman of Impact initiative. Woman of Impact is an extension of the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women® 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. This year’s Woman of Impact class will raise funds from February 2 to April 4 to support research and education to better identify, diagnose, treat and prevent CVD in women.
Women experience unique life stages that can increase their risk of developing CVD over the course of their lifetime. In fact, CVD is the number one killer of new moms as the leading cause of maternal mortality.[1] The good news is, the majority of cardiovascular events can be prevented with lifestyle changes and education which is the foundation of the Association’s Go Red for Women movement.
“Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in women, claiming more lives than all cancers combined, so it’s vital for all women to take charge of their heart health and encourage others to do the same,” said Heather Havericak, board chair of the American Heart Association’s Greater Miami and Fort Lauderdale market. “Nearly 45% of women over age 20 are living with some form of CVD. I am here to encourage women to raise their voices and make sure all South Florida women know how to take steps now to protect our hearts later.”
Woman of Impact, a nationwide initiative, launched in more than 100 cities across the country on National Wear Red Day, February 2. At the start of the campaign, hundreds of nominees nationwide embark on a nine-week journey to help transform the health of women through education and fundraising. Each week, 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. Nominees also raise critical funds for the South Florida American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement.
South Florida’s 2024 Woman of Impact Nominees are:
- Christi Bick, Director of Operations-International Staffing, MedPro Healthcare Staffing
- Aliette Rodz, Partner, Shutts & Bowen
- Emily Zubi, Founder, Miami Women Who Rock
- Aslynn Rivera-Tigera, Strategic Partnerships & Program Manager-South Florida Region, Florida Blue
- YeseniaMoreno, EVP, New Edge Associates
- Shahnaz Fatteh, MD, Board Certified Asthma Allergy Immunology Specialist, Asthma Allergy Care Center of Florida
- Debbie Danto, COO, Danto Builders
- Heidi Alzate Kaufman, EVP of Strategy & Development, Chapman Partnership
- Elizabeth Hernandez, Regional Manager of Patient Experience, Guest Relations, and Communication, Broward Health
On April 4, one nominee will be named the South Florida 2024 Woman of Impact winner. In addition to local market winners, one nominee from across the country will be named the National Woman of Impact winner.
“By using their influence, their local networks and their unique lived experiences, these volunteers are able to make a measurable difference in South Florida and we are so grateful for each of them,” said Marisol Garcia, executive director of the American Heart Association’s Greater Miami and Fort Lauderdale market. “Woman of Impact truly embodies the power of coming together to create important and lasting change for good.”
While the majority of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease continues to take the life of 1 in 3 women. In South Florida in 2022, nearly 6,600 women died from major cardiovascular diseases and 1 in 3 women have hypertension.
To learn more about the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement in South Florida visit http://www.heart.org/SFLGoRed.
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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:
Christina Vitale | christina.vitale@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
[1] Centers for Disease Control Pregnancy Mortality Surveillance System Table: Causes of Pregnancy-Related Deaths