American Heart Association Go Red for Women

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Go Red for WomenAMERICAN HEART association The American Heart Association is dedicated to eliminating heart disease and stroke by encouraging people to live healthier lifestyles and get moving to strengthen blood vessels, lower cholesterol and blood pressure, and maintain a healthy heart. This heart-healthy knowledge is a critical mission and one that has gained traction in the past 18 years. The initiative has been advanced in recent years with the launch of a well-received awareness campaign called “Go Red For Women.” According to their website, “The American Heart Association’s signature women’s 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.” Closer to home, the life-saving drive is significant as well. In 2020, The American Heart Association, Go Red For Women, held its first ever event on the Northshore. It was a sold-out gala that took place in March, just before the Covid Pandemic. The following year’s Go Red for Women’s luncheon was canceled, but 2022 would see the return of the signature event to the Northshore. Because of the nearly two-year absence, and for a cause they are both passionate about, mother and daughter duo, Maura Donahue and Lauren Andrews, were happy to volunteer as co-chairs for the 2022 Go Red for Women’s Luncheon. On September 23rd, the Tchefuncta Country Club was the setting for the return of the signature event featuring a wellness expo, Purse-onality silent and live auctions, a fashion show, and moving stories from survivors. About this vital initiative, co-chair Lauren Andrews passionately explains, “It’s not just about wearing red. It’s not just about sharing heart health facts. It’s about all women standing together with Go Red for Women — because 1 in 3 women die from cardiovascular diseases, and losing even one woman is too many.” As the fight to end cardiovascular disease continues, many dedicated people share their time and talent for this mission. The American Heart Association, Go Red for Women 2022 event was no exception. Many ardent supporters made this special event happen. Circle of Red co-chairs Debra Ethridge, and Rhonda Eckholdt were on hand to generate membership and fundraising for the mission. Lori Murphy, former Go Red for Women Luncheon chairperson, took the reins this year as the auction chair. “Lori,” explains Lauren, “helped bring true “purse-onality.” What exactly is a Purse-onality Auction? This auction is for items such as purses, bags, Yetis, and even kayaks. Each of these special packages contains unique items from the individual who donated them. It was a team effort that was filled with success and lots of fun! It is through initiatives such as Go Red for Women, and organizations like the American Heart Association that the battle against cardiovascular disease continues. However, it does not continue without the generosity of people willing to support their crucial work in research and education. As a year-long fundraising campaign, many leaders in the community pledged their support to make the 2022 Go Red for Women Luncheon the success it was meant to be. The 2022 Go Red for Women Luncheon set out with a twofold mission. First and foremost, the objective was to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease and its deadly power as the leading cause of death in women in the United States. The second mission was to raise funds for essential research on cardiovascular disease in women. Having faced the challenge of the twofold mission, the achievement was met. The 2022 Go Red for Women Luncheon campaign was a winning benefit for the cause.