Go Red for Heart Health: Celebrating Awareness at Every Age
Editor: Jules Aldaz
Photographer: Ricardo Gutierrez
Ladies in RED: Jules Aldaz (@julesaldaz), Glenda Fikes (@geeda.jfashion), Olivia Villa (@livbeautified), Aquila Mendez-Valdez (@hauteintexas), Bethany Castro (@sociallydesignit), Lexi Aldaz, and Sherri Braxton (@sherrifitness)
Heart disease doesn’t discriminate—it affects women of all ages. The American Heart Association’s “Go Red for Women” campaign is a powerful reminder that heart health starts now. I had the honor of joining six incredible women, ages 18 to 60, for a special Go Red photo shoot. Together, we stood united in red, symbolizing that heart disease can strike at any stage of life.
Go Red for Women is making significant strides in improving women’s heart health. By supporting research on disparities in women receiving bystander CPR, raising awareness through storytelling and media, and training individuals to confidently perform CPR on women, the initiative addresses critical issues in emergency response. Additionally, the campaign emphasizes the mind-heart-body connection, recognizing that psychological health significantly impacts cardiovascular well-being. Women are more likely than men to be diagnosed with mental health conditions like anxiety and depression, which can increase the risk of heart disease. Life stages such as pregnancy and menopause further influence this risk. By promoting stress management and overall wellness, Go Red for Women aims to reduce these risks and empower women to take charge of their heart health.
Mark your calendars—National Wear Red Day is Friday, February 7th. The day is about more than just wearing red; it’s a call to action. Heart health isn’t solely a concern for later in life—it’s something we must prioritize at every age. Whether you’re in your teens, 30s, or beyond, simple steps like routine checkups, staying active, eating well, and managing stress can make all the difference. Remember, small steps can make a big change and can even save your life.
Beyond raising awareness, this shoot was a celebration of strength, sisterhood, and self-care. We shared a beautiful time together, uplifting each other and appreciating the kindness and expertise of our talented photographer, Ricardo Gutierrez, who captured the essence of our message with every shot. We were also honored to have Zahra Cruzan, the San Antonio Marketing and Communications Director for the American Heart Association, celebrating with us on set, further emphasizing the importance of community support in promoting heart health.
Let this be your reminder to check in on your heart health, know the risks, and take steps to protect yourself. As women, we don’t just pursue our dreams; we ensure our hearts are strong enough to support us through every stage of life. ❤️
