TOLEDO, Ohio, December 16, 2024 – Tammie Brainard has been named the American Heart Association Toledo 2024 Leaders of Impact™ winner for her work driving equitable cardiovascular health in the community. In Lucas County, life expectancy varies by 21-years[1] which can often be caused by social drivers of health, deeply rooted inequities related to public policies, institutional practices, cultural representations and other norms which often reinforce inequities in health.
“Tammie and all of our nominees' steadfast efforts are helping to ensure everyone across the Toledo area has equitable opportunities for a longer, healthier life,” said Mindy Hartwick, Executive Director for the American Heart Association. “By ensuring access to quality healthcare and addressing health disparities, we are strengthening our collective future, creating a healthier, more vibrant community for generations to come.”
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S.1 In addition, an aging, more diverse population, along with a significant increase in heart disease and stroke risk factors among younger people are expected to nearly triple the nation’s price tag on cardiovascular disease (CVD) by 2050, according to new published projections from the American Heart Association.
Over the course of seven weeks, Brainard participated in a fundraising competition alongside five other Toledo professionals. Brainard was named the 2024 Leaders of Impact winner after raising the most funds.
“Taking part in Leaders of Impact was personal for me because I’ve had more time with my dad because of American Heart Association research. He was one of the first people to receive the new titanium heart stent,” said Brainard. “We are working to ensure everyone everywhere in our community has the opportunity to live a longer, healthier life.”
For more than 100 years, the American Heart Association has driven change by removing barriers to health, investing in groundbreaking research, educating health care professionals and patients, and advocating for healthy policies.
Leaders of Impact launched on Oct. 17 in hundreds of cities across the nation and culminated on Dec. 4. Each nominee’s participation is focused on opportunities to be a changemaker with a shared purpose to raise critical awareness. This amazing group of volunteers raised almost $40K for the mission of the American Heart Association.
Other local nominees included:
- Dawn Bentley - CAIRE, LLC
- Greg Braylock, Jr. - ProMedica
- Jennifer Weddington – Sigma Technologies
- Sonia Flunder McNair – SONIA Organics
- Terry Crosby - Taylor Automotive
For more information about Leaders of Impact and a list of all the 2024 nominees, please visit leadersofimpact.heart.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.
For Media Inquiries:
Katie Kwapich; Katie.Kwapich@heart.org
Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org