Did you know that cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for women, killing more than all forms of cancer combined? If you didn’t, you’re not alone. Most women are unaware of this fact, according to Rosie Schott, development director of Go Red for Women for the local chapter of the American Heart Association. “Only around 44% of women are aware of the impact of cardiovascular disease—it’s often thought of as a man’s illness, but the statistics reveal otherwise,” she says. “Go Red for Women is all about empowering women of all ages and backgrounds to take charge of their health. The first step is knowing what the threat is.”
Over the past two decades, Go Red for Women has championed to address insurance disparities between men and women, promoted the inclusion of women in STEM careers and launched research initiatives. The campaign also partners with community members and institutions to spread awareness through various social media campaigns, including National Wear Red Day on the first Friday of February each year. “It’s an amazing opportunity for survivors and other people impacted by our mission to share their stories,” Schott notes.
Go Red for Women’s annual luncheon is April 24 at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis. The event gives guests a chance to learn from cardiovascular experts as well as hear the stories of survivors. “Women often don’t take time to focus on their own wellness, and the luncheon is a nice reminder to take steps to improve their health,” Schott says. “We can’t take care of everything else if we aren’t up to our best standard.” This year, the luncheon will feature activities centered on women-focused industries, like fashion and beauty. This new element is reflected in the chair of this year’s campaign, Lori Coulter, co-founder and CEO of the swimwear brand Summersalt.
Coulter understands first-hand how important prioritizing one’s heart health is. Her grandmother and mother both endured challenges related to their cardiovascular health, and Coulter herself underwent a heart ablation in 2022 to correct a lifelong condition. “I am incredibly grateful for the cutting-edge research and education advanced by the American Heart Association, as well as the world-class care I received,” she notes. “That journey fuels my commitment to ensuring other women are heard and cared for. Serving as the 2026 Go Red for Women chair is an opportunity to give back, amplify lifesaving work and inspire others to join this mission of building healthier, longer lives for all.”
Go Red for Women is just one way the American Heart Association is spreading awareness in St. Louis. The annual Metro St. Louis Heart Walk will bring together St. Louisans to make a stand against heart disease on May 30. Schott encourages everyone to get involved however they can to support the community’s health. “Our goal is to change the statistics for cardiovascular disease,” she says. “The American Heart Association is working to ensure everyone can be their own advocate and do what it takes to champion their own health.”
The American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women campaign is dedicated to championing better health and well-being for women at every stage in their life. Its annual luncheon is April 24 at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis. Pictured on the cover: 2026 Go Red for Women chair Lori Coulter of Summersalt. For more information, Rosie Schott at rosie.schott@heart.org or visit heart.org/stlouisgored.
Cover design by Julie Streiler
Cover photo by Tim Parker Photography
Pictured at the top: Guests at the 2025 Go Red for Women Luncheon.
Photo: Schlueter Photography