CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa, Feb. 26, 2024 - This February during American Heart Month, three Cedar Rapids-area women are joining the American Heart Association to fight cardiovascular disease through the city’s inaugural Woman of Impact initiative.

Woman of Impact is an extension of the 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 Women of Impact campaign kicked off Feb. 2 and concludes April 4. The campaign’s goal is to raise funds to support research and education to better identify, diagnose, treat and prevent CVD in women.

“Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in women, claiming more lives than all cancers combined. It’s vital for all women to take charge of their heart health and encourage others to do the same,” said Ani Snyder, executive director for the American Heart Association, Eastern Iowa. “Nearly 45% of women over age 20 are living with some form of CVD. I am here to encourage women to raise their voices and make sure all Cedar Rapids women know how to take steps now to protect our hearts later.”

Cedar Rapids’ 2024 Woman of Impact nominees are:

  • Teri Gibson, principal and benefit advisor, TrueNorth Companies
  • Lura McBride, president and CEO, Van Meter Inc.
  • Patti Seda, owner and executive coach, Seda Consulting

A nationwide initiative, Woman of Impact launched in more than 100 cities across the country on National Wear Red Day, Feb. 2. Hundreds of nominees nationwide embark 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 American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement in Cedar Rapids.

The Cedar Rapids 2024 Woman of Impact Winner will be announced following the conclusion of the campaign. In addition to local market winners, one nominee from across the country will be named the national Woman of Impact winner.

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 cause of maternal mortality. The good news is, most cardiovascular events can be prevented with lifestyle changes and education, which are the foundation of the Association’s Go Red for Women movement.

To learn more about the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement in Cedar Rapids, visit www.heart.org/CedarRapidsGoRed or contact Chase Grubbs at chase.grubbs@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.

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 nearly 80 percent 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 20 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). 

 

For Media Inquiries:  
Bryan Geelan: 515-414-3204; bryan.geelan@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org