On Tuesday, February 4, the American Heart Association hosted its first ever “Heart Month at City Hall” Day in Philadelphia. Throughout the morning, advocates met with Philadelphia Councilmembers and their staff. During these meetings, advocates reiterated that heart disease is the leading cause of death in Philadelphia, 1/3 of adults are affected by high blood pressure. They also shared their own personal stories about why they are involved with the American Heart Association.
During the meetings, advocates emphasized policy solutions to address these needs. They highlighted the importance of funding for nutrition incentive programs like Philly Food Bucks, innovative initiatives to remove barriers to Self-Monitored Blood Pressure (SMBP) machines and how legislation to ensure healthier children’s meals would make healthier options easier for families.
Councilmember Jim Harrity, a two-time heart attack survivor himself, hosted a lunch presentation in City Council’s Caucus Room for the American Heart Association. He spoke about the contributing factors to heart disease and how Philadelphia City Council can work with the American Heart Association to address the leading cause of death in the city.
During the lunch, Councilmembers and their staffs heard remarks from a diverse group of advocates that shared their personal stories, data about contributing factors to heart disease and evidence-based policy recommendations to address the causes.
Additional speakers included:
- Helene Glassberg, M.D., Cardiologist, Penn Medicine and American Heart Association Greater Philadelphia Board President
- Jeffrey Salvatore, MSN, RN, CCRN-CMC, American Heart Association VP of Community Impact
- Kimberly Lloyd, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Philadelphia Alumnae Chapter President
- Tynecia Wilson, 2024 Miss Philadelphia and Nutrition Advocate
- Jessica Guo, Heart at Penn Founder/President and American Heart Association Advocate
- Mignon Verdell, The Food Trust Community Engagement Manager
The event underscored the power of community advocacy and collaboration in the fight against heart disease. Participants left City Hall inspired and committed to making a difference in Philadelphia’s health landscape.