Hundreds of people are expected to gather Thursday, Nov. 2 for the Cedar Rapids “Go Red for Women” luncheon at the Doubletree by Hilton in downtown Cedar Rapids.
The event, now in its 20th year, is held to raise awareness and funds in the fight against heart disease and stroke, the No. 1 killer of women.
The Go Red for Women Luncheon is one of the nation’s top events for the American Heart Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all. It is the signature fundraising event for its Go Red for Women movement, which harnesses the energy, passion and power of women to improve their health, and in turn, support their families and communities.
In conjunction with the luncheon, the American Heart Association is also hosting its “STEM Goes Red” event for ninth and tenth grade female students. “STEM Goes Red” is designed to provide young girls with insights into the possibilities and potential they possess to impact the world around them through STEM.
Tickets are still available for the luncheon and can be purchased at www.heart.org/CedarRapidsGoRed. Registration begins and the exhibit hall opens at 10 a.m. and the program runs from 12-1 p.m.
“As we celebrate two decades of Go Red for Women in Cedar Rapids, we highlight the progress we’ve made and rally to continue raising awareness of women’s greatest health threat,” said Kathy Horan, Cedar Rapids Go Red for Women chairperson and president and CEO for UnityPoint Health – AbbeHealth. “The education and research supported by the American Heart Association saves lives.”
The event features silent and live auctions, a keynote address and a survivor story.
Dr. Richard Kettelkamp, DO, medical director for UnityPoint Health – St. Luke’s Heart Care Clinic, will deliver the keynote address and discuss the progress made in cardiovascular medicine over the last 20 years. Heather Bottelman, a local heart disease survivor who was diagnosed with supraventricular tachycardia, or SVP, in her 30s, will share her powerful story.
Courtney Misener, professional speaker and writer, will serve as the event’s emcee. Rebecca Koppelman, meteorologist for Iowa’s News Now, will serve as emcee for the “STEM Goes Red” event.
“The Go Red for Women Luncheon isn’t just about wearing red,” said Curt Heideman, Cedar Rapids Go Red for Women vice chairperson and senior commercial relationship manager for Bankers Trust. “This is about raising awareness around heart health so we can empower women and all individuals to live healthier lives.”
Since 2004, “Go Red for Women” has engaged more than two million women to learn their risk of heart disease and stroke and take steps to take charge of their health.
Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, and the Cedar Rapids luncheon is locally presented by UnityPoint Health – Cedar Rapids.
