SAN ANGELO, Texas, Oct. 4, 2024 – Desiree Alvarado-Kessler, a licensed master social worker, will serve as the executive volunteer chairperson of the 2024-2025 San Angelo 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.

The American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, will celebrate the movement’s local achievements at the San Angelo Go Red for Women Luncheon on Wednesday Feb. 26, 2025, at the McNease Convention Center in San Angelo.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in women, claiming more lives than all cancers combined. Nearly 45% of women over age 20 are living with some form of CVD.

The 2024-2025 campaign is focused on bringing awareness to women’s heart health and CPR education. “Women often neglect their health while prioritizing family needs. It’s not just about staying well; it’s about thriving and being present for the moments that truly matter,” said Alvarado-Kessler.

For her, this movement is a chance to tackle healthcare disparities for all women. “As a social worker and high-risk woman of color living in a rural area, I see the unique challenges that these communities face when it comes to healthcare access,” she said. “My work is driven by a commitment to reducing health inequalities and making a positive impact on those who need it most.”

For 100 years, the American Heart Association has saved and improved lives, pioneered scientific discovery and advocated for healthy public policies in communities across the country. These bold moves are fueled by our mission to be a relentless force for longer, healthier lives. They have helped transform our nation’s health and significantly reduce heart disease and stroke death rates. But these gains have not been shared equitably. Black, Hispanic, Native American, Native Hawaiian, Asian American, Pacific Islander and LGBTQ+ people have suffered and died disproportionately. So have people in historically underrepresented communities all over the country. With Bold Hearts™ and powered by science, we pledge to work relentlessly to eliminate heart disease and stroke, optimize brain health and ensure equitable health in every community.

Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health and presented locally by Ethicon-Johnson & Johnson. For more information contact Ashely Quintana at ashey.quintana@heart.org or visit www.heart.org/sanangelogored.

 

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.orgFacebookX 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

Cyd King: cyd.king@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org