Central Arkansas Go Red for Women Luncheon to spotlight urgent gaps in women’s heart health

LITTLE ROCK, Ark., Oct. 1, 2025 — More than 300 supporters will unite in red on Thursday, Oct. 16, to raise awareness and critical funds for women’s heart health at the 2025 Central Arkansas Go Red for Women® Luncheon, hosted by the American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere. Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health.

Held at the Robinson Center in downtown Little Rock, the luncheon will spotlight survivor stories, honor local health leaders and highlight the urgent need to close gaps in cardiovascular care for women.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming more lives than all cancers combined. Nearly 45% of women over age 20 live with some form of cardiovascular disease, yet women remain underrepresented in research, underdiagnosed in clinical settings and undertreated across all stages of life.

“Heart disease isn’t just a number on a chart—it’s a deeply personal issue that affects women’s lives, families and futures,” said LaConda Watson, development director for Go Red for Women in Central Arkansas. “This event is about empowering women to take charge of their health and advocating for equitable care.”

Registration and an expo open at 10 a.m.

Program highlights include:

• A panel discussion featuring Dr. Christen Johnson (cardiologist), Dr. Rhonda Mattox (psychiatrist and mental health advocate), and Dr. Jerrilyn Jones (emergency medicine physician).
• Presentation of the 2025 Jean C. McSweeney, Ph.D., RN Women in Medicine Award to Vickie Wingfield, a two-time heart survivor and longtime cardiovascular health advocate.
• Survivor recognition honoring Emma Grace Bradley, whose journey from neonatal heart failure to college-bound senior exemplifies resilience.
• A red dress survivor fashion show featuring Mac Royals, finalist on Season 24 of “The Voice.”

The Go Red for Women movement is committed to reducing risk at every age, stage and season of life. Through initiatives like Research Goes Red, the Venture Fund for Women’s Health, and advocacy for Medicaid postpartum coverage, the American Heart Association is investing in solutions that address the unique needs of women.

“Women spend 25% more time in poor health than men and face significant barriers to quality care,” said Nikki Smith, executive director of the American Heart Association–Central Arkansas. “We’re working to change that—because every woman deserves the opportunity to live a long, healthy life.”

Additional resources:

• Key numbers to know for your health
• The state of US women’s heart health
• Life's Essential 8™ for Women

To learn more or support the movement, visit www.heart.org/CentralARGoRed .

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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 100 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