2025 Northwest Arkansas Go Red for Women Luncheon to celebrate Elm Springs woman’s story of strength and survival
ROGERS, Ark., April 18, 2025 – This year marks the 21st anniversary of the Northwest Arkansas Go Red for Women movement, an American Heart Association initiative dedicated to increasing women’s heart health awareness and serving as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally. The movement’s local achievements will be celebrated on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, with the NWA Go Red for Women Luncheon at the Rogers Convention Center.
The luncheon is expected to draw about 1,000 volunteers, supporters, and guests and will feature a vendor expo, health screenings, silent auction, heart-healthy lunch, keynote speaker, and the remarkable story of a courageous survivor, Brenna Groves of Elm Springs.
During a work trip in California, Groves experienced severe chest pains, difficulty breathing, and nausea. Sensing something was seriously wrong, she sought medical attention before her scheduled flight home. Her decision proved to be lifesaving. Upon arrival at the nearest emergency room, Groves was in cardiac arrest. The medical team acted swiftly, admitting her to the hospital and explaining the critical nature of her condition. She was sedated, intubated, and prepared for immediate intervention.
Four days later, Groves awoke to find her husband by her bedside, explaining that she was being prepped for open-heart surgery. The next day, she underwent a quadruple bypass. After 22 days in the hospital – enduring multiple procedures and a challenging recovery – she was finally able to return home to Arkansas.
Reflecting on her experience, Groves said, “I knew something wasn’t right and I’m so grateful I trusted my instincts and sought help. I hope my story encourages others to listen to their bodies and seek help when something feels off.”According to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease causes 1 in 3 deaths among women each year, and nearly 45% of women aged 20 and older are living with some form of cardiovascular disease. In the United States, over 60 million women (44%) are living with some form of heart disease.
According to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease causes 1 in 3 deaths among women each year, and nearly 45% of women aged 20 and older are living with some form of cardiovascular disease. In the United States, over 60 million women (44%) are living with some form of heart disease.
“Brenna’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing the signs of heart disease and seeking prompt medical care,” said Mellissa Wood, senior development director for the American Heart Association-NWA and director of Go Red for Women. “It also highlights the urgent need for continued research and education to combat heart disease, the leading cause of death among women.”
Groves was last year’s NWA Woman of Impact, an accolade she earned by raising funds and awareness in support of research and education to better identify, diagnose, treat and prevent cardiovascular disease in women. She was one of nine women competing for the title.
The new class of candidates for 2025 includes:
- Lizette Franco, a madrina (Spanish for godmother) from the 2025 NWA Vestido Rojo event
- Elizabeth Hashaway, head of US-Canada Sales, Onyx Brands
- Caroline Jones, owner, McClure Fitness
- Alisha Lyster, senior merchant – beauty, Walmart
- Julie McGrover, senior director - merchandising, Sam’s Club
- Tracey McGuire, senior director, Market Performance Group (MPG)
Nominees and their Impact Teams, made up of friends or family members, have been participating in activities designed to create a culture of wellness and health equity. Activities may include educational events, learning and spreading the word about CPR, getting active, and recruiting women to participate in research.
The woman whose team has the highest number of impact points — awarded through a combination of fundraising and mission impact activities — is named the Northwest Arkansas 2025 Woman of Impact Award Winner. The winner will be announced at the luncheon.
Wood said the nominees are on track to raise about $115,000 collectively. The nominee with the most points nationwide will be named the National Woman of Impact Award Winner.
Guest speakers for the luncheon are Olympic gold medalist Jordyn Wieber, head coach of the Arkansas Women's Gymnastics program; Marsha Martin of Little Rock, namesake of the Marsha and Marty Martin Family Basketball Performance Center at the University of Arkansas; and Peyton Bolling of Bentonville, Miss America's Teen 2025.
The NWA Go Red for Women movement is led by co-chairpersons Danelle Cobb of The Emerson Group and Walmart executives Jerrit Davis and Amanda Madrid. The NWA Circle of Red/Men Go Red giving group is championed by co-chairpersons Shana DeSmit, Jillayne Tompkins and Twilla Brooks.
Circle of Red is Go Red for Women’s annual giving society, made up of passionate individuals who are committed to fighting heart disease and stroke in women. They are members are leaders in their communities and families, often driven by personal experiences with heart disease. They are some of the greatest champions of the Go Red for Women movement, helping to save lives and further the mission of improving women’s heart health.
Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, and the NWA Go Red for Women Luncheon is locally supported by Life is Why sponsor The Emerson Group and signature sponsors Haleon, 3M and Beauty 21. Other local sponsors include Dossier, KISS and MPG. Media support comes from Celebrate, Citiscapes, KFSM-Channel 5 and the Northwest Arkansas Business Journal.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook or X by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries
Cyd King: cyd.king@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
