Go Red For Women a Success

The American Heart Association's 3rd Annual Go Red For Women luncheon in downtown Manchester last week raised more than $135,000. About 450 guests enjoyed a program emceed by WMUR Channel 9's Kria Sakakeeny and WZID's Tracy Caruso, workshops, exhibits, silent auction, health screenings and special "survivor stories" shared by local women survivors of heart disease or stroke.

Ten survivors walked the "Red Carpet" on their way to the stage where they each told their story.

Katy McGrath, vice president and director of corporate communications of Charter Trust Company in Concord and this year's event chairwoman, said, "We could not be more pleased for the American Heart Association as this event
achieved its purpose of raising both awareness for heart disease and stroke and support for life-saving research."

McGrath and her committee had set a fundraising goal of $125,000, which they surpassed through corporate sponsorships, foundation, and individual gifts. The $135,000 will be used to support the AHA's life-saving research, education and advocacy efforts.

This year's keynote speaker was Barbara Roberts, MD, director of the Women's Cardiac Center at The Miriam Hospital in Providence, RI. The Crystal Heart Award was presented to Lisa Landry, owner of Print Savvy, in Manchester for her outstanding volunteerism to the American Heart Association.

The "Man of Heart" Award was presented to John Hession for his photography of the Survivor Banner Stand project and The Faces of Heart Disease and Stroke booklet. The booklet was given to each guest at the luncheon.

Three breakout sessions, included; "At Peace with Food," "Common Myths about Cardiovascular Disease and Women's Health," and "Talking Money" were presented by Harvard Pilgrim Health Care of New England, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center and Charter Trust Company. Free health screenings were provided by Exeter Hospital.

To learn more about the 2009 Go Red For Women sponsorship and volunteer opportunities, please call the American Heart Association in New Hampshire at (603)518-1552 or visit www.americanheart.org.