Gulf Coast unites to help eliminate heart disease and stroke in women raising nearly $800,000

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- In the Associations 100th year, more than 1,170 people dressed in red swept through Montgomery County, Northwest Harris County, and the Bay Area for the annual Go Red for Women Movement and experience, uniting the community in the fight against heart disease. These events, held to raise awareness and funds for heart health, and advancements in heart health and chart a new course toward a world free of cardiovascular disease, which claims the lives of 1 in 3 women.

Northwest Harris County Go Red Dinner

Stacy Davis, 2024 Chair of the Northwest Harris County Go Red Dinner led a vibrant and engaging event with an attendance of 250 at Northgate Country Club. The Dinner featured Keynote addresses from Gulf Coast Board President, Jim Parisi, and Woman of Impact Nominee, Veronica Jones. The atmosphere was one of unity and hope, as participants donned their red 1920’s attire in support of the association 100th anniversary celebration.

“Seeing so many people come together for a cause that’s close to my heart is incredibly inspiring.” Said Stacy Davis. “Our goal is to continue educating the community and raising funds to support heart disease research.”

Montgomery County Go Red Luncheon
Chaired by dedicated community leaders Elvira Graham and Lonny Soza, the Montgomery County Go Red Luncheon was a resounding success. Held at the scenic Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center, 450 attendees were treated to an afternoon of inspirational stories, heart health education, and a First Responder Fashion Show, sponsored by Saks Fifth Avenue. The event highlighted the importance of preventive measures and the latest advancements in cardiac care, while showcasing the true resilience of the community.

“Heart disease is the number one killer of women, and events like these are crucial in spreading awareness and encouraging women to take charge of their heart health, “said 2024 Chair Elvira Graham. “We’re grateful for the community’s support and participation.”

Bay Area Go Red Luncheon

The Bay Area Go Red Luncheon, co-chaired by Dr. Diann Gaalema, Dr. El Haddad, and Dr. Ivana Garza, of UTMB Health brought together 450 medical professionals, community advocates, and heart health enthusiasts at South Shore Harbour Resort. The Luncheon emphasized the critical role of early detection and the impact of lifestyle changes on heart health, with an in-depth panel discussion led by UTMB’s Co-chairs.

“Heart disease affects millions of women every year, but with proper education and resources, we can make a significant impact,” said Dr. Gaalema. “Our combined efforts at events like this help save lives.”

“But we can’t do it alone,” says Dr. El Haddad. “It’s time to make bold moves and support innovative solutions for women’s cardiovascular health. Go Red for your mother, your daughter, your friends, and yourself. Because when we come together, we can motivate, educate, support, and help save each other.”

All three Go Red Luncheons guests rallied together for a woman they love to raise over $750,000 to save and improve women’s lives by advancing equitable research and care, advocating for inclusive health policies, and raising awareness of women’s number one health threat, cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Since 2004, the Go Red for Women movement has addressed the awareness and clinical care gaps of CVD for women. As the movement celebrates 20 years of making an impact, the Association calls on all women to take charge of their health and make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of their community.

“Whether it’s learning CPR, knowing your own risk factors, having an honest conversation with your doctor, or empowering another woman to prioritize her own health and well-being, there are so many ways to create a legacy of health in our families and our community, “said Kellie Armstrong, Executive Director, Gulf Coast.

“Go Red for Women is here for women’s health and well-being at every age, stage and season of their lives,” Armstrong continued. “And by coming together and supporting the women in our community, we can make a lasting impact.”

Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health and the Gulf Coast Go Red for Women Experiences are locally sponsored by St. Luke’s Health the Vintage Hospital The Post Oak Collection, The Woodlands, and UTMB Health.

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