IRVINE, Calif., May 5, 2026 — Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the No. 1 killer in the United States, but according to the American Heart Association, approximately 80% of heart attacks and strokes are preventable. Two area individuals have successfully channeled their energy and passion to build a healthier community and raise critical dollars to help fund the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association, earning them recognition from the organization.  Morgan Ratcliffe is the 2026 Orange County Woman of Impact winner. Teen of Impact winner Jonathan Yii has been named this year’s 2026 Orange County Teen of Impact winner.

The Heart Association, devoted to changing the future to a world of healthier lives for all, is celebrating changemakers in over 160 communities across the nation. These leaders used their campaigns to make the greatest impact in their communities by raising awareness for heart health and funds for lifesaving research, advocacy and education.

The Woman of Impact and Teen of Impact campaigns launched on National Wear Red Day®, Friday, Feb. 6. Over nine weeks, these leaders hosted fitness classes and exercise challenges, led hand-only CPR trainings, organized restaurant and Galentine's fundraisers, launched a 1st annual tennis tournament, landed features in local magazines, and shared the American Heart Association’s mission across their schools, workplaces, and social platforms. They got people moving, raised awareness around heart and brain health, and brought their communities into the mission in meaningful ways. Collectively, the Woman of Impact and Teen of Impact nominees raised over $235,000 to support the vital work of the American Heart Association.

“When my beloved dad, Craig, died of heart disease, my entire world was shattered. He was just weeks shy of his 72nd  birthday. Despite his healthy habits: walking 10,000 steps a day, eating clean, golfing nearly every morning - he fought a long and arduous battle with heart disease. I know this family history also puts me at greater risk of heart disease and he inspires me daily to run faster, cook healthier and more at home, see my doctor regularly,” said Ratcliffe. “I am honored to have received this recognition and am excited to continue working alongside the American Heart Association and Go Red for Women to help more women know their risk factors and get the support they need to live longer, healthier lives.”

The 2026 Teen of Impact campaign winner has his own personal story.  “The AHA’s mission is part of why I am here today. I was born with multiple congenital heart defects that led to three open heart surgeries, and I have always been appreciative, and furthermore inspired by the restorative power of cardiac medicine. I am so honored to be named the Orange County winner and thankful for the number of opportunities and valuable experiences this campaign has given me. As I am currently on the enduring quest to become a cardiothoracic surgeon, my work with the AHA and in medicine does not stop here, and I look forward to opportunities that will enable me to help heal countless patients and their families while inspiring those I encounter,” said Yii.

Eleven nominees competed in the Heart Association’s Woman of Impact™ and Teen of Impact™ campaigns in Orange County. Each nominee supported the Heart Association in its fight against the nation’s No. 1 health threat, CVD. The Woman of Impact campaign, part of the Heart Association’s Go Red for Women® movement, specifically focuses on improving women’s health, while Teen of Impact focuses on empowering the next generation to change the trajectory of heart health for their generation.

Ratcliffe and Yii are two of more than 160 other community-level Women and Teen of Impact winners from across the country now eligible for national recognition. The national winners from each campaign will be named on May 20, 2026.

“Changemakers like Ratcliffe and Yii and all of our nominees are making a lasting impact in Orange County,” said Tania Saison, 2026 Go Red for Women campaign chair and Senior Vice President, International Legal Affairs and Chief Compliance Officer

with Edwards Lifesciences. “Together, we have the power to fund more lifesaving research and educate women and teens on how they can take steps now to protect their hearts to help create a future of longer, healthier lives for all.”

Orange County’s 2026 Woman of Impact Nominees included:

  • Cynthia Berger
  • Shawna Berk
  • Leah Choi
  • Jill Harake
  • Jane Magro
  • Allana Mitchell
  • Shaista Sharief

Orange County’s 2026 Teen of Impact Nominees included:

  • Peyton Blakey
  • Mariana Tapia

To learn more about the Heart Association in Orange County, visit Southern California | American Heart Association.

 

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. 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:

Daniel Ruacho, daniel.ruacho@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org