SAN ANGELO, Texas October 4, 2024 – Desiree Alvarado-Kessler, Licensed Social Worker, will serve as volunteer chair of the Go Red for Women® 2024-2025 movement in San Angelo, a comprehensive platform designed more than two decades ago to increase raise awareness about women’s heart health and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women around the world.
The American Heart Association (American Heart Association), a global force aiming for healthier lives for all, will celebrate the movement’s local achievements at the San Angelo Go Red for Women event on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at the McNease Convention Center in San Angelo.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in women, claiming more lives than all cancers combined. Nearly 45% of women over 20 have some form of CVD.
The 2024-2025 campaign focuses on raising awareness of women’s heart health and CPR education. “Women often neglect their health while prioritizing family needs. It’s not just about staying well; it’s about thriving and being present in the moments that really matter,” said Alvarado-Kessler.
For her, this movement is an opportunity to address health care disparities for all women. “As a social worker and high-risk woman of color living in a rural area, I see the unique challenges these communities face when it comes to access to health care,” she said. “My work is driven by a commitment to reducing health inequalities and making a positive impact on those who need it most.”
For 100 years, the American Heart Association has saved and improved lives, pioneered scientific discoveries, and advocated for healthy public policies in communities across the country. These bold measures are driven by our mission to be a relentless force for achieving longer, healthier lives. They have helped transform our nation’s health and significantly reduce death rates from heart disease and stroke. But these achievements have not been shared equitably. Black, Hispanic, Native American, Native Hawaiian, Asian American, Pacific Islander, and LGBTQ+ people have suffered and died disproportionately. So have people in historically underrepresented communities across the country. With Bold Hearts™ and the power of science, we are committed to working tirelessly to eliminate heart disease and stroke, optimize brain health, and ensure equitable health in all communities.
Go Red for Women is sponsored nationally by CVS Health, and locally by Ethicon-Johnson & Johnson. For more information contact Ashely Quintana at [email protected] or visit www.heart.org/sanangelogored.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a tireless force whose goal is to prolong the life and health of everyone. We are dedicated to ensuring health equity in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations and the power of millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for public health, and share resources to save lives. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024, our centenary year, we will celebrate 100 years of history and significant achievements. As we prepare for the second century of discovery and impact, our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Contact us at heart.org, Facebook, x or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
About Go Red for Women®
The American Heart Association’s flagship initiative, Go Red for Women®, is a comprehensive platform designed to raise awareness of women’s heart health and serve as a catalyst for change to improve their lives around the world. While most cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women. For more than two decades, Go Red for Women has raised awareness. The movement harnesses the energy, passion and power of women to come together and collectively eradicate heart disease. It challenges them to know their risk of heart disease and take steps to reduce it. It also gives them the tools they need to live a heart-healthy life. The Go Red for Women movement is sponsored nationally by CVS Health, with additional support from national cause partners. For more information, visit GoRedforWomen.org or call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721).
For media inquiries
Cyd King: [email protected]
For public inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org