It’s a milestone year for the American Heart Association and its Go Red for Women initiative: the AHA commemorates its 100th anniversary, while Go Red marks its 20th anniversary.
The AHA was founded June 10, 1924, by six cardiologists as a professional society for doctors; this changed in 1948 when the focus turned more towards a health organization.
Since 2004, Go Red for Women has addressed the awareness and clinical care gaps of women’s greatest health threat, cardiovascular disease; heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women in the U.S.
On March 1, the AHA hosted the New Orleans Go Red for Women Luncheon at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside Hotel, where women gathered to celebrate these two milestones, as well as those who support the mission of AHA and Go Red.
“Educating women about taking the time for their own health will have benefits not just for the women themselves, but the quality of life with their families,” says event co-chair Martine Chaisson Linares.
“As someone who has family and friends who have heart conditions, I feel strongly about being part of a community of passionate women who are making a difference and bringing awareness to heart disease,” says event co-chair Dr. Rupa Jolly.
Fun Fact: The event also brought awareness to two initiatives: the Women of Impact, women nominate peers to participate in a fundraising challenge; and Bold Hearts, a centennial celebration that highlights the AHA’s transformation, further promoting the mission of cardiovascular health.
