Go Red for Women Real Women 2021 Class

I’m so excited to announce that I’ve been selected for the Go Red for Women Real Women 2021 class. Since my heart transplant, I’ve shared my story on this blog and other places including a few American Heart Association events on the West coast. With this new role, I’m looking forward to continuing to spread awareness on a national level about peripartum cardiomyopathy and other heart health issues.

The reason I am sharing my story is because I almost died from a condition I didn’t know about. I thought I had read every book and blog on pregnancy. I didn’t know that it can trigger heart failure in otherwise healthy young women. There are other heart issues that can occur as well and young mothers are unaware. The American Heart Association and Go Red for Women have noticed this lack of awareness in women. In response, the Go Red for Women Real Women 2021 Class now includes its first micro-group focused on Maternal health. Being a part of this inaugural group of mom survivors is such an honor. Our stories will spread greater awareness about heart health issues that can arise during pregnancy. We have the potential to save lives and I am so glad I can be apart of this group.

Heart disease is the number one killer of women. Most people know when you get older that you should be worrying about your health, what many don’t know is that it should be on our radar so much earlier. Many of us, especially those in the younger generations are unaware of the risks that can impact our health. I am looking forward to being a part of this group of dynamic women as we continue to live fierce and share our stories.