Amy Grant Advocates for Women's Heart Health in American Heart Association Campaign

Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Amy Grant is leveraging her personal experience with heart surgery to spotlight the urgent need for increased awareness and research funding for cardiovascular disease (CVD) in women. In collaboration with the American Heart Association (AHA), Grant is spearheading a year-end giving campaign and public service announcement to address the fact that CVD remains the number one cause of death for women, claiming one in five women's lives annually.

Grant's involvement stems from her own brush with heart disease in 2020 when she underwent open-heart surgery to correct a rare condition her doctor described as a 'ticking time bomb.' Now healthy and thriving, Grant credits AHA-funded research and medical advancements for her positive outcome. Her testimony underscores the critical importance of the AHA's mission to combat heart disease and stroke.

The campaign comes at a crucial time, as nearly 45% of women over 20 are living with some form of cardiovascular disease. Despite this prevalence, women are often underrepresented in clinical trials, leading to significant gaps in understanding how CVD uniquely affects them. The AHA aims to bridge these gaps by investing in more inclusive research and developing resources tailored to women's specific heart health needs.

Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association, emphasized the organization's commitment to pursuing a world free from cardiovascular disease and stroke. 'Together, we can help ensure everyone everywhere has access to a long healthy life, especially women impacted by heart disease,' Brown stated, highlighting the importance of public support in achieving this goal.

The campaign is particularly significant as it aligns with the AHA's centennial year of lifesaving work. It seeks to capitalize on the season of giving, with donation matches established through December 31st to amplify the impact of contributions. These donations will support initiatives aligned with the Association's 2028 Impact Goal, focusing on advanced research, education, and community programs.

Grant's involvement brings a powerful personal element to the campaign. 'The risk to women is often overlooked, yet the numbers tell a story we cannot ignore,' she said, urging people to prioritize heart health and support the AHA's mission. Her message resonates strongly, emphasizing that contributions could be life-saving for someone's mother, daughter, or sister.

The campaign also addresses critical issues such as the cardiovascular risks women face during unique life stages, including pregnancy and menopause. By increasing focus on these areas, the AHA aims to provide more comprehensive care and prevention strategies for women throughout their lives.

As the AHA enters its second century of work, this campaign represents a pivotal moment in the fight against heart disease in women. It not only raises awareness but also provides a tangible way for the public to contribute to life-saving research and programs. The potential impact of this initiative is significant, promising to advance women's heart health and potentially save countless lives in the years to come.

With cardiovascular disease affecting such a large proportion of women, this campaign serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance, research, and support in combating this pervasive health threat. As Grant's story illustrates, the advancements made possible by AHA-funded research can have profound, life-changing impacts on individuals and families across the nation.