WINTERSVILLE — On Friday, a special event took place at the St. Florian Event Center to celebrate local women and raise awareness about heart health. Trinity Health System hosted its second annual Crimson Connections For Your Heart Event, which managed to raise $25,000 for cardiology equipment through sponsorships and drawings.
This year’s highlight was the announcement of Annie Campbell Johnston as the Crimson Connections Champion. She stood out among five nominees for her commitment to the community. Johnston is not only a co-owner of M&M True Value Hardware but also actively volunteers with First Westminster Church and founded the Badge Buddies program, which connects children at Pugliese Elementary East with local law enforcement through various activities.
In her acceptance speech, Johnston humbly stated, “I don’t do what I do to be in the spotlight. I think we need more good in the world.” She expressed gratitude to her family for their support.
The other nominees included:
- Sydney Cain, an EMT who established a mentorship group for those overcoming addiction.
- Lisa Kush, a specialist at Trinity Health, using social media to spread health awareness.
- Dana Meadows, a nurse practitioner known for her exceptional care of patients.
- Rebekah Cohen Morris, founder of the Mother of Mercy Maternity Home, helping pregnant women in crisis.
Laurie Labishak, the market director for Trinity Health System, emphasized the importance of communication for health. She encouraged attendees, especially women, to be aware of their bodies and to speak up about any discomforts.
Health screenings were available, including blood pressure checks and chair massages. Attendees also learned about heart disease, especially how symptoms can differ for women. Lisa Kush highlighted that while men might experience typical symptoms, women can face subtler signs, like jaw pain and nausea. This is critical as research indicates that women are nine times more likely to delay treatment in these cases.
Kush urged women to prioritize self-care. “To care for others, you must first care for yourself,” she said. She also encouraged those with health experiences to share their stories, suggesting that these personal accounts can truly make a difference in others’ lives.
According to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death for women in the U.S. Statistics show that nearly 1 in 3 women dies from heart disease. Events like this not only raise funds but also sharpen awareness about the critical signs and preventive measures regarding heart health.
As the community comes together to champion women’s health, the message is clear: awareness and action can save lives.
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Local News,Trinity event raised awareness, support for heart health treatment
