Gwinnett proclaims February 2025 American Heart Month; survivor urges prevention

Chairwoman Nicole Lev Hendrickson on Feb. 18 presented a proclamation declaring February 2025 as American Heart Month in Gwinnett County and recognized the American Heart Association's Go Red for Women initiative.

Hendrickson read the proclamation highlighting that cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States and that the initiative encourages prevention, healthier lifestyles and community action. The proclamation cited statistics included in the record: heart disease causes one in three deaths among women and nearly 45 percent of women 20 and older in the U.S. live with some form of cardiovascular disease.

Kimberly Goodloe, an American Heart Association advocate who marked 16 years since a heart valve replacement, spoke after the proclamation. Goodloe said she celebrates her recovery and urged patients to develop relationships with their physicians and support teams. "I go red because I'm a heart valve disease survivor," Goodloe said. "Take one day at a time, develop a relationship with your physician, build a strong support team, and never ever lose hope."

Hendrickson encouraged residents to know their risk factors, manage blood pressure and cholesterol, move more and schedule regular checkups. The proclamation also recognized the Gwinnett County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. for partnering on awareness activities.

The county said the Go Red for Women initiative has worked since its inception to raise awareness and influence policies that improve clinical care for women at risk of cardiovascular disease.