Licensed clinical psychologist and sleep expert to keynote Charleston Go Red for Women Luncheon
CHARLESTON, S.C., March 20, 2025— The American Heart Association devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, is proud to announce that Dr. Melissa Milanak will serve as the keynote speaker at the upcoming Charleston Go Red For Women Luncheon.
A licensed clinical psychologist at MUSC Health, executive consultant, and keynote speaker, Dr. Milanak founded MIND Impact Consulting LLC to transform her passion for helping others succeed and her research and clinical expertise in anxiety, sleep disorders, stress, and workplace wellbeing into practical application. Her luncheon keynote will focus on sleep and how it affects your cardiovascular health. In 2022, the Association added sleep to Life's Essential 8. Life’s Essential 8 are the key measures for improving and maintaining cardiovascular health, as defined by the American Heart Association. Better cardiovascular health helps lower the risk for heart disease, stroke, and other major health problems.
The Charleston Go Red for Women Luncheon will be held on May 22 at the Charleston Marriott on Lockwood Blvd. Guests will wear their favorite red attire and enjoy an auction, heart-healthy lunch, expo, fashion show, and more. The signature event raises money to support women’s cardiovascular research, education, awareness, and advocacy initiatives. Survivors, supporters and cardiovascular experts will be in attendance.
Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women in South Carolina, but women remain underdiagnosed and undertreated. They also experience unique life stages, like pregnancy and menopause, that increase their risk of heart disease and stroke. Nearly 45% of women over age 20 are living with some form of cardiovascular disease. Yet, younger generations of women, Gen Z and Millennials, are less likely to be aware of their greatest health threat and are less likely to know the heart attack and stroke warning signs. That’s why it’s important for all women to take charge of their heart health and encourage others to do the same.
Since 2004, the Go Red for Women movement has raised awareness and addressed clinical care gaps for women. As the movement celebrates more than 20 years of making an impact, the Association calls on all women to take charge of their health and make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of their community.
Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health and the Charleston Go Red for Women Luncheon is locally sponsored by MUSC Health, Blackbaud, Roper St. Francis Healthcare, and The InterTech Group. For more information contact CharlestonSC@Heart.org or visit www.heart.org/CharlestonGoRed.
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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 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, on Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Jessica Rodgers; Jessica.rodgers@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
