TOLEDO, OH April 7, 2023 – Sanaa Awada was motivated by the Go Red for Women campaign to educate everyone in her office on the life-saving skill of Hands-Only CPR, to educate her team of 8 on their blood pressure numbers and learned about Life’s Essential 8. She took part in this campaign in memory of her grandmother, who died of cardiovascular disease.

“I’ve seen the devastating effects of heart disease on women,” said Sanaa Awada, “In my own family, I’ve seen the progression of heart disease in loved ones and the impact it makes in their quality and length of life. My grandmother succumbed to heart disease in 2018 after years of treatment and trying to do all the right things. I’m running in this campaign for her and women like her who support their families and communities,”

Sanaa Awada has been named the 2023 Toledo Woman of Impact Award Winner. The recognition by the American Heart Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, is awarded annually to the Woman of Impact nominee who earns the most points during a 9-week fundraising and heart health education drive. 

A group of Toledo women were nominated to embark on a journey starting on National Wear Red Day in February and culminating on April 6 to earn the local title. Collectively, this year’s Toledo nominees and their Impact Teams made up of friends, family, and personal connections, provided education and awareness around women’s heart health to our community and raised $26,000 for the Toledo American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement.

Awada earned the award for leading her team to raise over $10,620 and participate in mission-impact activities for the American Heart Association’s signature women’s initiative.

“We are so grateful to Sanaa and to all of our nominees for their work elevating the Go Red for Women message and raising critical funds in support of our local mission,” said Sara Hegarty, Toledo’s Executive Director. “While our work is far from finished, we’ve made considerable progress in women’s heart health awareness. With advocates like Sanaa and our other Woman of Impact nominees leading the way, our city is stronger, and our future is brighter.”

While a large majority of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease continues to be a woman’s greatest health threat, taking the life of 1 in 3 women. Research published by the American Heart Association shows that younger women, particularly Millennials and Gen Z may not be aware of their risk for heart disease and stroke[1].

 

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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 devoted to saving people from heart disease and stroke – the two leading causes of death in the world. We team with millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, fight for stronger public health policies and provide lifesaving tools and information to prevent and treat these diseases. The Dallas-based association is the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-800-AHA-USA1, visit heart.org or call any of our offices around the country. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
 

For local media inquiries:
Katie Kwapich: Katie.Kwapich@Heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org