(COLUMBUS, OH), (Nov. 7, 2023) – Kara Trott, founder and board chair of Quantum Health, along with leadership support from Quantum Health’s Veronica Knuth, chief people officer, and Jenny Barnes, general counsel and vice president of legal, will serve as the community volunteer chairs of the 2023-2024 Columbus Go Red for Women® movement, leading the Columbus Go Red for Women Luncheon with a goal of raising $1.12M.

The Go Red for Women movement is an initiative of the American Heart Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women locally, nationally and globally.

Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women in the United States, claiming more lives each year than all forms of cancer combined. Heart disease and stroke continue to be Central Ohio’s women’s greatest health threat.

“I’ve seen the impact of heart disease firsthand with my grandmother, my mother and my grandfather and believe it’s critical for women to understand the signs and not misread or minimize symptoms,” says Trott. “We have the opportunity to create awareness that will save lives through Go Red for Women.”

Since 2004, Go Red for Women has addressed the awareness and clinical care gaps of women’s greatest health threat, cardiovascular disease. As Go Red celebrates 20 years of making an impact, on the cusp of the American Heart Association’s 100th anniversary, this year’s Go Red for Women Luncheon will celebrate 20 years of achievements and look ahead as the Association and Go Red continue to make bold moves to save lives and pioneer scientific discoveries.

“There are still too many women not aware that cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women. The great news is that most of these diseases can be prevented with education and lifestyle changes,” says Barnes. “That is why I’m involved with the American Heart Association – because losing even one woman to heart disease is too many.”

As the Association looks to the next 100 years, Go Red for Women is prepared to meet the evolving needs of women now, and at every age, every stage, and every season of their lives as their trusted, relevant source for credible, equitable health solutions. ​

“Women often have a lot on their plates and tend to over-index on being care givers without taking care of themselves,” Knuth says. “I’m excited to work with the American Heart Association to bring awareness and a path to action for women around their health through Go Red for Women.”

For two decades Go Red for Women has been saving and improving women’s lives by advancing equitable research and care, advocating for inclusive health policies and raising awareness. But they haven’t done it alone – they reach their goals by working with organizations and individuals who share their vision for better health.

“We are so fortunate to have the three amazing, passionate and impactful leaders serving as our Go Red for Women chairs this year,” says Nancy Tobbe, executive director for the American Heart Association, Central Ohio. “Their experience and leadership will make a notable impact on the lives of women in our community and the families that depend on them.”

This year’s Go Red for Women movement and its local achievements will be celebrated on Friday, Feb. 23 at the Columbus Go Red for Women Luncheon. Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health and the Columbus Go Red for Women Luncheon is locally sponsored by Live Fierce Central Ohio sponsor, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Life is Why sponsors, Big Lots Foundation and Cardinal Health and local sponsors, Mount Carmel Health System and Quantum Health. For more information visit heart.org/columbusgored.

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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 nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

For Media Inquiries:
Brianne Ballard: brianne.ballard@heart.org