American Heart Month/National Wear Red Day Raises Awareness

With Ashley Korslien and Brenda Braxton.

Portland, OR. The American Heart Association is getting help from broadcasters like KGW’s Ashley Korslien and Brenda Braxton, who remind people to focus on their hearts. Women across the U.S. helped raise awareness as they marked “Wear Red Day” on February 3rd. The annual event is held on the first Friday in February to raise awareness about heart disease being the No. 1 killer of women.

A young heart attack survivor, Julie O’Leary, told her story to Stephanie Kralevich on FOX 12 Oregon for #PDXGoesRed.

The local chapter of the American Heart Association is also gearing up for a big fundraiser: the 2017 Portland Heart Ball on Saturday, February 25th. The Heart Ball brings together leaders from the corporate, philanthropic and medical communities to raise funds and promote the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association.

The Heart Ball is one of many events that benefit the American Heart Association. The Red Dress Collection fashion show in New York is another. The show kicked off New York Fashion Week and was hosted by actress Katie Holmes.

Actresses, musicians, talent show hosts, reality stars and survivors of cardiovascular disease walked in red dresses — and one pantsuit — created by designers specifically for the American Heart Association Red Dress Collection.

Katie Holmes, wearing Marchesa, addressed the crowd at the Red Dress Collection fashion show in New York.

Maureen McCormick hit the runway.

Jessie James Decker was another volunteer for the cause.

Katie Holmes spoke of the importance of awareness in preventing cardiovascular disease and told the audience that it kills a woman every 80 seconds. She reminded the guests of why they attended the show. “Memories are why,” she said. “Fun is why. And a great red dress is why.” The celebrity models were a diverse group mirroring the randomness of how cardiovascular disease strikes.

Elisa Klein

I’ve been a professional journalist and writer since 1987, (and long-time reporter for KOIN-TV.) As a nationally published reporter, with a Master’s Degree in Journalism, I love to report positive news and information. Journalism has also connected me with another non-profit where I served as a leader; the Northwest’s biggest writer’s organization: The Willamette Writers.