I'm proud to be part of a team of strong women making a real impact on the state of women's health. As a registered nurse, I was aware of cardiovascular illness and the discrepancies in the care men and women receive. However, heart disease had not impacted my life in a personal way until my dear friend, Tara, told me that she would be having a complete aortic valve replacement in the summer of 2025. I have known Tara for 16 years, She has been a mentor, boss, professional colleague, and most importantly, a friend. I knew she had been born with a congenital heart defect, but she did not talk about it, and she appeared to be in good health. It was impossible to imagine that this dynamic woman with her limitless energy had the potential to die from heart disease. Tara explained her symptoms to me and the frustration she experienced in getting someone to listen to her concerns.
Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women. The American Heart Association Go Red for Women movement's Woman of Impact campaign is working to change that.
After coming through major open heart surgery with flying colors, Tara is able to resume her busy life. I was honored to be asked to join her team when she was nominated as one of the American Heart Association's Women of Impact.
Ironically, I had my own encounter with heart health last summer. After a few weeks of intermittent chest pain and shortness of breath, I learned I had stress induced hypertension. Fortunately it could be managed with a few minor lifestyle adjustments.
Heart disease unfairly targets women, who have been left out of research, testing, treatment and funding. Women have been underrepresented, undertreated and undercounted. But it doesn't have to be this way. Because there's one source of support women can always count on - each other.
Together, we can engage more women in research. We can fight for access to care and treatments. And we can be a catalyst to create health solutions with women's unique health needs in mind, supporting them through every age, stage and season of life.
It's not just about wearing red. It's not just about sharing heart health facts. It's about all women connecting and committing to stand together against our greatest health threat.
The time is now. Are you with me? To support my campaign, click the Donate button.
Thank you.