Improving Women’s Heart Health: Riverside Doctors’ Hospital Williamsburg President Leads Local Movement
Adria Vanhoozier, the esteemed President of Riverside Doctors’ Hospital Williamsburg, has been appointed to the prestigious role of executive volunteer chair for the 2024-2025 Hampton Roads Go Red for Women® movement by the American Heart Association. This movement, which was established over two decades ago, aims to raise awareness about women’s heart health and drive positive change to enhance the well-being of women worldwide. As the American Heart Association commemorates its 100th anniversary, Vanhoozier will take on a crucial role in leading the annual Hampton Roads Go Red for Women Luncheon.
According to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the primary cause of death among women, surpassing all cancers combined. Shockingly, nearly 45% of women over the age of 20 are living with some form of CVD, making heart disease and stroke the most significant health threats faced by women in Hampton Roads.
Vanhoozier shared her motivation for taking on the chairmanship of Go Red for Women, citing her family’s history of heart disease as a driving force. She expressed a desire to educate and empower women from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing one’s health, particularly in critical situations. Vanhoozier highlighted the significant impact of the American Heart Association’s work over the last century and expressed her eagerness to unite the community in advancing the mission of promoting women’s heart health in Hampton Roads and beyond.
The upcoming 2024-2025 campaign will focus on addressing women’s heart health at every stage of life, emphasizing the importance of utilizing the latest resources from Life’s Essential 8, a set of key measures for enhancing and maintaining cardiovascular health. MeShall Simmons, the Executive Director of the American Heart Association Hampton Roads, praised Vanhoozier’s dedication to the mission and leadership qualities, expressing confidence in her ability to make a substantial impact on women’s lives in the community.
The Go Red for Women movement, a global initiative with reach extending to over 50 countries, is set to celebrate its achievements during the 2024-2025 Hampton Roads Go Red for Women Luncheon on Friday, February 14, 2025, at the Hampton Roads Convention Center. The event is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, with local sponsorship from Riverside Health, Bon Secours Hampton Roads, TowneBank, and Goodman and Sons Jewelers. Tables and early bird tickets for the luncheon are currently available for purchase.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association stands as a steadfast advocate for promoting longer, healthier lives and ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaborative efforts with various organizations and the dedication of millions of volunteers, the association funds innovative research, advocates for public health, and shares vital resources to save lives. With a rich history spanning a century, the Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information. As the association celebrates its Centennial year in 2024, it looks forward to continuing its legacy of impactful discoveries and advancements in health.
About Go Red for Women®
Go Red for Women, the American Heart Association’s signature initiative, serves as a comprehensive platform dedicated to raising awareness about women’s heart health and driving positive change globally. Despite the preventable nature of the majority of cardiac events, cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in women, claiming the lives of one in three women. For over two decades, Go Red for Women has been instrumental in promoting awareness and empowering women to take charge of their heart health. The movement harnesses the collective power of women to combat heart disease, encouraging them to assess their risk factors and adopt heart-healthy lifestyles.
For Media Inquiries:
Jaylyn Brown: 443-866-7733; jaylyn.brown@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
In conclusion, Adria Vanhoozier’s leadership in the 2024-2025 Hampton Roads Go Red for Women movement signifies a significant step towards improving women’s heart health and raising awareness about the prevalence of cardiovascular disease among women. Her dedication to this cause, coupled with the support of the American Heart Association and local sponsors, promises to make a lasting impact on the lives of women in the community. As we look ahead to the upcoming events and initiatives, it is crucial for women of all ages to prioritize their heart health and take proactive steps towards a healthier future.
