02/07/2025
In 1996, my mom went into the hospital for what was supposed to be a routine heart catheterization. Instead, she had an emergency triple-bypass surgery the next morning.
That moment changed everything.
Over the next 20 years, she would undergo 11 stent procedures—some placed in the same areas as advancements in technology improved. Later, she received a double pacemaker, another life-extending breakthrough.
I witnessed firsthand how medical advancements didn’t just add years to her life—they gave her quality of life. Each procedure, each innovation, each dedicated moment of care gave us more time together.
The American Heart Association plays a critical role in this progress, funding research and advocating for life-saving policies, like newborn screening for critical congenital heart disease before infants leave the hospital. Critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) screening was added to the US Recommended Uniform Screening Panel in 2011 and adopted by all US states and territories by 2018.
My mom passed in 2016, but her journey ignited something in me long before then. In 2000, I started volunteering with the American Heart Association, first in Memphis, then Houston, and now back in Memphis again.
It wasn’t just about gratitude for the extra time we had—I wanted to help ensure that others got that same gift.
Today, on National Go Red Day (Feb 7), we shine a light on a sobering fact: heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women—taking more lives than all cancers combined.
But here’s the good news: 80% of cardiac events can be prevented through awareness, early detection, and lifestyle changes.
💡 Three simple ways to start taking care of your heart today:
❤️ Know Your Numbers – Get your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and BMI checked regularly. Understanding these numbers can help you catch potential issues early.
🥗 Make Heart-Healthy Choices – Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit processed foods, excess sugar, and sodium. Even small changes can make a big difference!
🏃♀️ Move More, Stress Less – Aim for at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week (just 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week). Managing stress through movement, meditation, or deep breathing also helps protect your heart.
And here’s what I’ve learned along the way:
💡 Heart health isn’t just about living longer—it’s about living better.�💡 Advocacy, research, and education save lives.�💡 The more we take care of our hearts, the more time we have with the people we love.
So today, I wear red for my mom. For every woman who has fought. For those fighting now. And for those who will win because of the work being done.
💬 Who do you wear red for today? Drop their name in the comments. Let’s honor them together.
Want to learn more, take action, or give back? Visit heart.org or GoRedForWomen.org to learn / support life-saving research and education.
