NEW YORK, N.Y., Sept. 15, 2025 — Nearly 45% of women over the age of 20 are living with some form of cardiovascular disease (CVD), yet most aren’t aware that it is their number one killer. To help change that, the American Heart Association in New York City is once again inviting local women affected by heart disease or stroke to share their powerful stories. These inspiring voices will come together as part of the 2026 New York City Go Red for Women Class of Survivors, raising awareness and empowering others to take charge of their heart health.
The 2026 New York City Go Red for Women Class of Survivors will serve as local ambassadors who share their personal journeys of heart disease and stroke to emphasize the critical importance of women remaining proactive about their health. Their shared stories and voices remind us that when women unite and Go Red together, they become a powerful force against cardiovascular disease.
To be part of this growing awareness campaign, local survivors can share their story and apply to be part of the 2026 NYC Go Red for Women Class of Survivors at the following link: http://easternstates.heart.org/nycgrfwclassofsurvivors.
“Our local Go Red for Women movement allows us to witness the incredible impact that can be made when women come together as a relentless force,” said Meg Gilmartin, region SVP, sr. executive director, development & community health. “The 2026 New York City Go Red for Women Class of Survivors will be an inspiring group of women, of all ages, ethnicities and backgrounds whose stories reflect the diverse realities of women’s heart and brain health.”
Members of the 2026 New York City Go Red for Women Class of Survivors will serve as representatives for the New York City Go Red for Women movement throughout the year, with opportunities to appear in local media, awareness campaigns, on our website and at our local events.
“I am so excited to watch our 2026 New York City Go Red for Women Class of Survivors initiative grow and bring in a new group of voices to help champion the mission of the American Heart Association,” said Cristina Civetta, a member of the 2025 New York City Go Red for Women Class of Survivors and founder, sponsor of the initiative, along with her husband, Ed Scheetz. “When women come together to share their powerful stories of survival, we can truly create awareness and help change the dialogue around heart disease and work to create changes within our communities and around the country.”
The application is open September 15-October 24, 2025.
Who can apply?
Women who have survived a cardiac event, stroke and/or are living with some form cardiovascular disease and are 18 years of age or older.
The American Heart Association in New York City is looking for women who represent diverse backgrounds, races and ethnicities. We also encourage women who are bilingual, mothers who have children affected by CVD or active military or veterans to apply.
Interested in being part of the 2026 New York City Go Red for Women Class of Survivors? Submit a 60-second video at http://easternstates.heart.org/nycgrfwclassofsurvivors describing your heart or stroke journey and why you should be selected to be part of this movement.
Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health and the New York City Go Red for Women movement is locally sponsored by JPMorganChase and Northwell Health. New York City Go Red for Women Class of Survivors is sponsored by Cristina Civetta and Ed Scheetz.
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About the American Heart Association
The 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 on heart.org, Facebook, X or 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. The Go Red for Women movement is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, with additional support from national cause supporters. For more information, please visit GoRedforWomen.org or call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721).
For Media Inquiries: 212-878-5910
Ella Beames: ella.beames@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)