The American Heart Association launched its annual Red Dress Collection Concert, drawing attention to cardiovascular disease's significant impact on women's health. Hosted by Academy Award-nominated actress Sharon Stone, the event featured musical performances, personal stories, and a star-studded runway show aimed at raising awareness about heart disease prevention.
Stone, a stroke survivor, opened the event by sharing her personal connection to cardiovascular health, emphasizing the importance of understanding family medical history and recognizing potential risk factors. The concert, held at Jazz at Lincoln Center, showcased the ongoing efforts to combat the leading cause of death among women in the United States.
Grammy Award-winning artist Sara Bareilles headlined the musical performances, delivering a powerful set that included her hit songs like "Brave" and "Love Song." Singer Suki Waterhouse also performed, adding to the evening's musical diversity and energy.
The event featured a diverse lineup of celebrities, including Miss America 2025 Abbie Stockard, actress Abigail Spencer, and television personality Porsha Williams, who walked the runway in striking red ensembles designed by top fashion talents. Each participant helped amplify the message of heart health awareness and prevention.
According to the American Heart Association's 2025 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics Update, cardiovascular diseases continue to claim more lives in the United States than all forms of cancer and accidental deaths combined. This stark statistic underscores the critical importance of the Go Red for Women movement and events like the Red Dress Collection Concert.
During the event, American Heart Association CEO Nancy Brown presented the Woman Changing the World award to philanthropist Sarah "Sally" Ross Soter, recognizing her decades-long commitment to funding women's health initiatives and research.
The concert serves as a pivotal moment in the ongoing campaign to educate women about heart health, encourage preventative measures, and support research into cardiovascular disease. By combining entertainment, personal stories, and medical insights, the event aims to empower women to take proactive steps in managing their heart health.
