Wheeling, WV; April 4, 2024 – The American Heart Association’s Ohio Valley Women of Impact campaign has drawn to a close with five area women leading the charge to help transform the region through education and outreach as well as helping bring in critical, life-saving funds for research. For the past nine weeks, the candidates have held special events and fundraisers for the campaign, in an effort to improve heart health in the Ohio Valley. This Friday the campaign comes to a close at a special celebration. WTRF’s Baylee Martin will emcee the event.
The Ohio Valley Women of Impact luncheon will take place this Friday, April 5, at the White Palace at Wheeling Park (1801 National Road, Wheeling, WV) from noon to 1:30 p.m. During this time, guests will get a look at some of the activities the candidates put together as part of the campaign. This year’s nominees are:
• Andrea Trio: Principal, Madison Elementary
• Jaime Baker: On-air personality, WTOV 9
• Melissa Burkett, RN BSN CCRN: WVU Medicine
• Peg Riccadonna: Owner, The Snooty Pooch
• Wendy Anderson: Director, St. Clairsville Area Chamber
Unlike previous years, the five nominees opted to work together, so no one winner will be determined. Rather, they have seen themselves as a unified force for women’s heart health in the Ohio Valley.
“These women are inspirations to us all, working together as a team to improve heart health in the region,” said Lauren Thomas, Development Director for the American Heart Association. “Each has found their own unique way to bring the Women of Impact campaign to life in the Ohio Valley and I’m so proud and excited of the work they’ve done. The region will benefit from their energy, creativity, and passion for helping others.”
Woman of Impact is an extension of the American Heart Association’s long-standing Go Red for Women movement, 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.
Beginning on National Wear Red Day, Feb. 2, 2024, hundreds of Woman of Impact nominees nationwide embarked on a 9-week journey to help transform the health of women. Each week, nominees and their Impact Teams, made up of friends or family members, participated in activities designed to create a culture of wellness and health equity. Nominees and their Impact Teams also raised critical funds for the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement in the Ohio Valley.
“By using their influence, their local networks and their own unique passions and experiences, these ladies have made a measurable difference in the region and we are so grateful for their contributions,” said Thomas. “These women remind us that the Woman of Impact campaign truly embodies the power of coming together to create important and lasting change for good.”
To learn more about the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement in the Ohio Valley, visit http://www2.heart.org/OhioValleyWVWOI.
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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 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.
For media inquiries:
Kevin Pauley: kevin.pauley@heart.org / (304) 444-6494