Toledo executive leads efforts to improve women's heart health
TOLEDO, Ohio, July 7, 2026 — According to recent American Heart Association projections, by 2050, almost 60% of women could have high blood pressure. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the No. 1 killer of women, but it doesn’t have to be. [1] The. . .
Cheryl Hardy to chair the American Heart Association’s Toledo 2026-27 Go Red for Women initiativeTOLEDO, Ohio, July 7, 2026 — According to recent American Heart Association projections,by 2050, almost 60% of women could have high blood pressure. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the No. 1 killer of women, but it doesn’t have to be. [1]The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, is encouraging women to prioritize their heart health. Leading that effort locally is Cheryl Hardy, President of Hardy Communications and Marketing, who is serving as the 2027 chair for Toledo’sGo Red for Women®movement. This campaign empowers women to take charge of their heart health by educating them on their risk factors in every stage of life while addressing critical gaps in research and health care. Go Red for Womenis dedicated to helping every woman, in every stage of life, improve their heart and brain health. “Go Red for Women is one of the most meaningful efforts in Toledo because it brings together women from every walk of life and encourages them to focus on something we too often put last—our own health. For one afternoon, women pause, connect, learn and think about their hearts, their futures and the people who count on them,” Hardy said. “Go Red reminds us that we must also take care of ourselves. We must continue being a catalyst for women to listen to their bodies, advocate for their health and seek the care they need. There is no better effort in our city than the Go Red for Women Luncheon to spark those conversations and inspire action. "Despite the threat of CVD an American Heart Association survey foundless than half of women are aware of their unique risk. Go Red for Women is committed to closing gaps in access to care and championing a community of support. “Women have always been able to count on each other. Cheryl is leading that community and sisterhood in Toledo and creating a ripple of change,” said Mindy Hartwick, executive director for the American Heart Association – Toledo. “Go Red for Women is about slowing down to prioritize the health of the women in our lives. ”The Toledo Go Red for Women Luncheon will take place at the Glass City Center on February 25, 2027, featuring an inspiring program with survivor stories and lunch, followed by an interactive pop-up lounge where guests can connect, take real action for their heart health and experience what makes this event unforgettable. For more information, contact Ashley Tehensky at 847-414-9806. ###About the American Heart AssociationThe American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us onheart. org,Facebook,Xor by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. About Go Red for Women®The American Heart Association’s signature initiative, Go Red for Women®, is a comprehensive platform designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally. While the majority of 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 encouraged awareness. The movement harnesses the energy, passion and power of women to band together and collectively wipe out heart disease. It challenges them to know their risk for heart disease and take action to reduce their personal risk. It also gives them tools they need to lead a heart healthy life. For more information, please visitGoRedforWomen. orgor call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721). For Media Inquiries:Molly O’Brien;molly. obrien@heart. org, 513-365-1278For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)heart. organdstroke. org