Go Red–Your Heart Depends On It

This post was written by C Y Cooper.

Remember that heart disease kills more women each year than breast cancer, and that our symptoms are so different than those of men.

A sea of RED took over the Hilton Hotel in Fort Worth, Texas recently for the 2016 Tarrant County GO RED For Women Luncheon.  The annual fund-raising event, by the American Heart Association of Tarrant County, drew a large crowd of supporters that focuses on improving the heart health of women in the surrounding area.

It’s no secret that Heart Disease is the No. 1 killer of women in America.  It affects more women than men and is more deadly that ALL forms of cancer combined.  So, what does it mean to GO RED FOR WOMEN.  It’s about making women’s health the No. 1 priority, getting the word out to every single female in this country about their risk of heart disease and stroke.

(G)et your numbers—–Ask your doctor to check your blood pressure and cholesterol.

(O)wn your lifestyle—–Stop smoking, lose weight, exercise, and eat healthy.  It’s up to YOU.  No one can do it for you.

(R)ealize your risk—–We think it won’t happen to us, but heart disease kills one (1) in three (3) women.

(E)ducate your family—–Make healthy food choices for you and your family. Teach your children/grandchildren that it’s important to stay active.

(D)on’t be silent—–Tell every woman you know that heart disease is our No. 1 Killer.

The Keynote Speaker for this year’s luncheon was Dr. Marjorie Jenkins, a nationally recognized expert in the field of sex and gender-based medicine and the Founding Director and Chief Scientific Officer of the Laura W. Bush Institute for Women’s Health.  Dr. Jenkins spoke on how and why women ignore the symptoms they may be suffering from heart disease and what can be done in treating, preventing and even ending the disease.  Besides Dr. Jenkins, the audience heard from Elissa Taylor, a wife and mother of three (3), who survived a heart attack while in her 30s.

Before the luncheon attendees had the opportunity to participate in Health Screenings, Cooking Demonstrations, Hands Only CPR presented by the City of Fort Worth Fire Department and a Silent Auction.  CBS 11 News Anchor Kaley O’Kelley served as Mistress of Ceremonies for the luncheon.

Remember “thisisyourbestyear”–take care of yourself!