Go Red For Women
One of my passions has been serving as a volunteer for the American Heart Association’s “Go Red for Women” over the past 17 years. This movement began to raise awareness of heart disease and stroke as the leading causes of death in women. The ultimate goal of Go Red is to empower women to take charge of their own heart health. As chair of the Iowa City Chapter, I have had the privilege of working with leaders in our community to spread heart health awareness to women and raise funds for life saving research and education.
Recognizing the powerful impact the Go Red For Women Movement has on saving lives through education and healthy lifestyle emphasis; I incorporate much of the American Heart Association standards into my practice. I am committed to empowering women in my community on heart health and educating all women I encounter with the importance of “Knowing your Numbers” as it relates to heart health. It is critical that women and men understand many heart disease and stroke events can be prevented with education and lifestyle changes. To me this is hopeful and one of the many reasons I am dedicated to this movement! Knowledge is power and I am committed to helping women increase their knowledge on how they can live their healthiest life!
My Why
MY WHY started 17 years ago. As a physical therapist dedicated to women’s health and wellness, Go Red for Women peaked my interest. I also had a mother and mother-in-law, who faced heart issues and their health challenges further motivated me to get more involved. So, when a friend asked me to volunteer, the mission was a natural fit for me. Through my experience, I received so much more than I gave, as my connection to Go Red resulted in more knowledge of how I could help make a difference.
But it wasn’t until 4 years later that my family and I came to fully understand the power and profound impact that this movement, and the American Heart Association funded research advancements, have on saving lives. Our daughter Janie was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect at 24 weeks in utero that required lifesaving surgery shortly after birth. Following 2 open heart surgeries and multiple procedures all in her first month of life, Janie is not only a heart survivor but a thriving beautiful 11 year-old today. We are so grateful. 50 short years ago, babies born with Janie’s heart condition known as Transposition of the Great Vessels more often than not did not survive past 24 hours of life.
While my spouse and I were already on board with everything Go Red stood for before Janie was born; as you can imagine, our passion for this movement, and all it can do for others, has been fueled. Over the past several years, I have seen this movement grow in numbers, with an increased awareness for women’s heart health. I have heard from friends, colleagues, and even strangers who are taking their heart health more seriously. It is empowering to hear women encourage other women to listen to their bodies, to trust their instincts and take action if something isn’t right.
As a daughter, a mother, a health care provider, and a friend, I have witnessed first-hand the power of this movement and its ability to positively impact and save the lives of those dear to me. If you want to learn more about the Go Red for Women Movement and the American Heart Association visit: