To the Editor:

Our mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends are at risk. Heart disease and stroke cause one in three deaths among women each year — more than all cancers combined. Fortunately, we can change that because 80 percent of cardiac and stroke events may be prevented with education and action.

The American Heart Association Go Red For Women movement, nationally sponsored by Macy’s and CVS Health, inspires women to make lifestyle changes, mobilize communities, and shape policies to save lives. United, we are working to improve the health of all women.

Through the outreach and efforts of Go Red For Women, about 293 fewer women in the U.S. die from heart disease and stroke each day. We Go Red to help create a culture of health for women and their families. Why? Life is why.

As chairwoman of the 15th Annual Garden State Go Red For Women Luncheon, I want women across the state to be more aware of their heart health. The luncheon, set for Friday, May 19 at the Westin Princeton at Forrestal Village, will help raise critical funds for the nation’s top killers. Let’s unite for a day of awareness, education, and inspiration.

Together, we can prevent heart disease and stroke. It’s time to put our hearts into it and Go Red For Women. For more information on the Garden State Go Red For Women Luncheon, visit GardenStateGoRedLuncheon.Heart.org.

Stephern Allison, DHSc, PA, MBA 

Chair, Garden State Go Red For Women Luncheon

Vice President of Cardiovascular Services

and Care Management at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital