Kentucky, (February 15, 2024) - This American Heart Month six Kentucky women are joining the American Heart Association to fight their number one health threat, cardiovascular disease (CVD) through the Woman of Impact initiative. Woman of Impact is an extension of the American Heart Association’s 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. This year’s Woman of Impact class are working from February 2 to April 4 to raise funds to support research and education to better identify, diagnose, treat and prevent CVD in women.
Women experience unique life stages that can increase their risk of developing CVD over the course of their lifetime. In fact, CVD is the number one killer of new moms as the leading case of maternal mortality.[1] The good news is, the majority of cardiovascular events can be prevented with lifestyle changes and education, which is the foundation of the Association’s Go Red for Women movement.
Woman of Impact, a nationwide initiative, launched in more than 100 cities across the country on National Wear Red Day, February 2. At the start of the campaign, hundreds of nominees nationwide embarked on a nine-week journey to help transform the health of women through education and fundraising. Each week, nominees participate in activities designed to create a culture of wellness and advance health equity. Activities may include educational events, learning and spreading the word about CPR, getting physically active, recruiting women to participate in research and more. Nominees also raise critical funds for the Kentucky American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement.
Kentucky’s 2024 Woman of Impact Nominees are:
- Alyssa Ryan of Lexington, Marshall Lane Real Estate
- Betty Spain of Lexington, Bella Rose Boutique
- Callie Dismukes of Paducah, St. Mary Elementary
- Julie Quick of Lexington, Julie Quick Art Studio
- Shannon Cobb of Lexington, Red Mile
- Wittney Youngblood of Pikeville, Pikeville Medical Center
On April 4, one nominee will be named the Kentucky 2024 Woman of Impact Winner. In addition to local market winners, one nominee from across the country will be named the National Woman of Impact Winner.
“By using their influence, their local networks and their unique lived experiences, these volunteers are able to make a measurable difference in Kentucky and we are so grateful for each of them,” said Dana Stefaniak, statewide development director at the American Heart Association. “Woman of Impact truly embodies the power of coming together to create important and lasting change for good.” To learn more about this year’s nominees and donate to a campaign, visit http://www2.heart.org/KentuckyWOI.
While the large majority of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease continues to take the life of 1 in 3 women. In Kentucky, more than 4,800 women die each year from cardiovascular disease.
To learn more about the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement in Kentucky visit www.heart.org/kentucky.
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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.
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:
Afton Fairchild: Afton.Fairchild@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
[1] Centers for Disease Control Pregnancy Mortality Surveillance System Table: Causes of Pregnancy-Related Deaths