AUSTIN, Oct. 6, 2025 ­­­— The American Heart Association, the world’s leading voluntary organization focused on heart and brain health for all, hosted the 2025 Vestido Rojo event for 600+ local Hispanic women in September.

Vestido Rojo, meaning ‘red dress’, is a free, Spanish-speaking event dedicated to empowering Hispanic women with the tools to take charge of their heart health. This year’s summit featured health screenings, a Hands-Only CPR experience, a provider panel, mental health resources and chair yoga – all designed to educate, energize and inspire.

The event is not just a key part of the Association’s work in Austin to overcome barriers to equitable health; it’s a community highlight that helps Hispanic women learn to identify their symptoms and those of their loved ones. Hispanic people have disproportionately higher rates of certain risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes; however, they are less likely to seek medical care for an illness. These statistics are affected by barriers to health like access to Spanish providers, transportation, childcare, and a general lack of accessibility in the complicated, time-consuming health landscape.

Events like Vestido Rojo emphasize the American Heart Association’s work to reduce barriers to care and make healthcare more accessible. With education and representation, people are more likely to take charge of their health and act fast in the event of a crisis.

Vestido Rojo is also a celebration of Hispanic culture. Table leaders (madrinas) presented inspiring table centerpieces that tied their personal stories to the work of the Association. When Claudia Talamentez, Vestido Rojo emcee and on-air personality at Univision Austin, announced the winner of the table centerpiece competition, the celebration lasted for nearly 10 minutes. Thanks to presenting sponsor, Ascension Seton, as well as local sponsors Encompass Health, HEB, Baylor Scott & White, and St. David’s HealthCare. Additional thanks to United Healthcare and media sponsors Univision and Norsan Media.

For more information about Austin’s Vestido Rojo, contact Mary Elizabeth Buckel at mary.e.buckel@heart.org.

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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, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. 

For Media Inquiries

Michael Vybiral: michael.vybiral@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org