WHEELING, W.Va. — Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death among women, surpassing all cancers combined.
February, designated as “American Heart Month,” serves as a crucial period for education and prevention efforts.
“It’s our Super Bowl, is what we like to call it,” said Lauren Thomas, development director for the American Heart Association of North Central West Virginia & Ohio Valley.
“Because it’s just bringing awareness, letting people know that it’s not just one month out of the year that we focus on heart health. It should be a year-round initiative and that people should be taking care of themselves and putting their hearts first.”
In conjunction with American Heart Month, the “Ohio Valley Women of Impact” campaign launches Friday. Six influential local women — Crissy Clutter, Jan Pattishall-Krupinski, Lacy Ferguson, Shelbie Smith, Jennifer Hall-Fawson & Laurie Conway — will spearhead efforts to raise funds and awareness for heart health.
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For more information on the nominees and the upcoming Ohio Valley Heart Ball on Feb. 28, click here.
