Launched over two decades ago, this campaign continues to raise awareness about heart disease and stroke—two of the leading causes of death for women in the U.S.
“Go Red for Women has sparked a nationwide movement to raise awareness about heart disease and stroke prevention, empower women to take charge of their health and make an incredible impact on heart and brain health across the country,” said Meredith Wells, executive volunteer chairperson of the Austin Go Red for Women campaign. “It’s a mission that’s saving lives, one woman at a time.”
The mission behind Go Red for Women
The Go Red for Women campaign is a vital component of the American Heart Association’s broader mission to raise awareness about heart disease and stroke.
These diseases kill more women each year than all forms of cancer combined. In fact, heart disease is the leading cause of death in women, and stroke ranks as the third leading cause of death in women. Yet many women remain unaware of their risks, often dismissing the symptoms or not understanding how they differ from those seen in men.
"The Go Red for Women campaign seeks to change the conversation around women’s heart and brain health by not only raising awareness but also empowering women to be proactive in their care,” Wells said. “By educating women on their unique risks and urging them to take action through education, research and advocacy, Go Red for Women is about more than awareness—it’s about being fiercely protective about your own health."
A unique approach to heart disease and strokes in women
One of the main reasons the Go Red for Women campaign is so crucial is because women often experience heart disease and strokes differently than men.
Women’s symptoms can be more subtle or atypical, which can delay diagnosis and treatment.
Symptoms of heart disease or stroke in women include:
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Heartburn or indigestion
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Speech difficulty
- Sudden, unusually bad headache
Wells emphasized this in her work as the Vice President of Neurosciences Service Line at Ascension Texas and National Administrative Director of Neurosciences Service Line for Ascension, where they are working to address both heart and brain health through comprehensive, integrated care.
“Understanding the intricate connection between the heart and brain is critical, which is why Ascension is committed to providing a comprehensive network of care across Central Texas that addresses both aspects,” Wells said.
Education saves lives
One of the key focal points of the Go Red for Women campaign is education. Wells explained that education is crucial because it helps build a chain of survival, empowering individuals to take action in emergencies.
“The person you educate today could be the one to save your life or the life of a loved one tomorrow,” Wells said. “It’s about building a chain of survival—a network of individuals who are ready to step in during a health crisis and take action.”
Go Red for Women Luncheon and Summit
The Go Red for Women Luncheon and Summit from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Feb. 19 at JW Marriott Austin, located at 110 E 2nd St., Austin, is a powerful event dedicated to raising awareness about heart disease and stroke in women.
Attendees can look forward to keynote speaker Susan Lucci, Emmy Award-winning actress and National Ambassador for the Go Red for Women movement. She’ll share her personal connection to heart health and the work she’s done to advocate for women’s heart health.
In addition to the luncheon, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in hands-only CPR training, learn about blood pressure management and engage in other activities to increase heart health awareness.
“As we come together at the Go Red for Women Summit, we’re not just raising awareness—we’re empowering women to take control of their heart health,” Wells said. “By sharing stories, offering education and providing resources, we’re making real strides in the fight against heart disease and stroke.”
Individual and Circle of Red membership tickets are available for purchase online, and donations can be made to support the American Heart Association’s life-saving mission.
How to get involved
Feb. 7 is National Wear Red Day, a day when people across the country wear red to raise awareness about heart disease and stroke in women. It’s a simple but powerful way to show support for the cause and start important conversations about heart health.
“Wearing red isn’t just a symbol of support—it’s an opportunity to spark a conversation that could save a life,” Wells said. “By simply posting a photo of yourself in red on social media and including resources, you’re spreading awareness. A simple post can spread crucial information that could inspire someone to get checked, seek help or learn more about their risks.”
Beyond wearing red, there are many ways to get involved and make a difference in the fight against heart disease and stroke.
To give a gift in honor of Heart Month in support of Austin Go Red, visit the donate page on the Association’s website.
Visit the American Heart Association website to learn more about the Go Red for Women movement and access resources about heart disease and stroke.
The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
