SEATTLE, February 1, 2024 — A working mother from Puyallup has been named to Go Red for Women’s 2024 class of Real Women, a nationwide group of survivors sharing their stories to raise awareness of women’s greatest health threat, cardiovascular disease. The American Heart Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, today announced the 12 heart disease and stroke survivors who make up the 2024 class. Collectively they are sharing their stories to highlight the urgent need for women of all ages to take charge of their own health.
Kyra Smithlin, 58, was cuddling with her nine-year-old son Bryce on a Saturday morning in 2012 when she went into cardiac arrest. Bryce called 9-1-1 and Kyra’s husband performed CPR. At the hospital her heart stopped repeatedly for eight hours, and she received 40 shocks from a total of three automated external defibrillators, or AEDs, which left burn marks on her body. Doctors told her family to say their goodbyes, but Kyra woke up. She attributes her power to overcome the odds to Bryce who begged her “not to die.”
Smithlin’s experience illustrates the need for more trained lifesavers in our community. “If my husband wouldn’t have called 911 and started CPR right away, I wouldn’t be here today,” said Smithlin. “Immediate CPR and use of an AED can double or triple the chance of survival from cardiac arrest. I am living proof. If one more person learns CPR after hearing my story, sharing will be worth it.”
February is American Heart Month and the Association is urging every family in the U.S. to join the Nation of Lifesavers™ by learning CPR. People can take an online CPR course, watch a 60-second video to learn Hands-Only CPR or find a Heartsaver™ certification course near them.
Research shows a woman is less likely to receive CPR from a bystander than a man, and men have 23% higher odds of surviving a sudden cardiac arrest than women[1]. “It’s frightening to think that too many women die from cardiac arrest – partly because people are afraid to touch them,” said Smithlin. “CPR is a skill that everyone should know. Chances are you could be performing it on someone you love. Being prepared and empowered to act will increase the number of lives we save. I hope everyone learns.”
Go Red for Women, nationally sponsored by CVS Health, is the American Heart Association’s comprehensive platform designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally. Learn more at GoRedforWomen.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. 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. In Washington, find us at heart.org/Washington on Facebook, Instagram or X.
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).
Media Contacts:
Valerie Koch, Valerie.koch@heart.org
Francesca Minas, Francesca.minas@heart.org