Shreveport joins together to bring awareness

The new initiative, Women of Impact, honors women change makers, dedicated to their communities and raising awareness of women’s No. 1 health risk, heart disease For decades, every February, communities across America join together to bring awareness to our nation’s number one killer: heart disease.

Despite the devastating toll of COVID-19, heart disease remains the No. 1 cause of death in the U.S. and worldwide.

Heart disease claims more women’s lives than all forms of cancer combined. One in three women is dying from heart disease today, and the truth is, one is too many.

The Northwest Louisiana American Heart Association is honoring a group of women dedicated to raising awareness and making a lasting impact on our community’s health and well-being.

“Women of Impact nominees are change makers,” said Kimberly Griggs, owner of All the Way Health and chair for Woman of Impact campaign. “This is the first year for the campaign, and we are excited to start this new initiative. We want this campaign to be an initiative women will want to be a part of. They are helping making changes for women’s health. We asked for nominations from the community of women who demonstrated passion and drive to make a difference here in Shreveport-Bossier City.

“These seven women accepted the challenge: Emerie Gentry, Alyssa Garner, Jese Gary, Lauren Harrington, Lauren Pennywell, LaKishia Grider and Kourtney Washington. They have planned community impact activities, personal health challenges and are raising funds for Go Red for Women. These campaigns will go until the Northwest Louisiana Go Red for Women digital celebration on March 18 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. We are honored to work with the AHA to celebrate these women and their accomplishments.”

The American Heart Association recently noted an alarming decline in the awareness that cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women – and too many women, particularly our youngest, most diverse women, remain unaware. Research shows heart attacks are on the rise in younger women, and new data from a study published in Circulation suggests younger generations of women, Gen Z and millennials are less likely to be aware of their greatest health threat, including knowing the warning signs of heart attacks and strokes. That’s why it’s important for all women to take charge of their heart health and encourage others to do the same.

“2020 was a year like no other, but we’re still standing. When women come together, there is nothing we can’t achieve,” said Jill Lucero, regional director of the Northwest Louisiana American Heart Association.

To support these ladies and register for this year’s Go Red For Women digital event, visit nwlagored.heart.org or connect on Facebook, click “Ticket.” Registration is free.

To learn more about the Women of Impact initiative and get involved in the Northwest Louisiana Go Red for Women movement, contact Jill.Lucero@Heart.org.