PHOENIX, Feb. 12, 2026 — Cardiovascular disease (CVD) claims the lives of 1 in 3 women—that's a third of the women we can’t bear to live without. The American Heart Association, devoted to changing the future to a world of healthier lives for all, invites women across the Phoenix community to take a stand against heart disease by taking a seat and sharing their story as part of our premier Go Red for Women® Red Couch Tour.
Sponsored locally by Abrazo Health, the tour will debut on National Wear Red Day, Feb. 6, 2026, at the Woman of Impact Campaign Kickoff event. It will conclude with its final stop at the 2026 Phoenix Go Red for Women Luncheon on Thursday, April 30, at the Biltmore and both events will offer attendees the opportunity to sit on the red couch and voice their personal connection to heart health and inspire meaningful change.
“Heart disease and stroke can happen at any age and nearly 45% of women over age 20 are living with some form of cardiovascular disease,” said Jeff Meshey, board chair of the Heart Association Phoenix Division and president and CEO of Desert Financial. “I’m encouraging all women to participate in this tour and make bold moves today for a healthier tomorrow. Come be part of the conversation—because your story has the power to raise awareness, inspire action, and potentially save a life.”
Since 2004, the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement has funded lifesaving women’s research, advanced public health policy and championed closing gender gaps in research and STEM.
“Through the Red Couch Tour, we’re creating a safe space for women to be seen, heard, and empowered to take control of their heart health,” said Kimberly Blaha, president of Abrazo Arizona Heart Hospital. “When women stand together, we can create lasting change and shape a healthier future for generations to come.”
Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, and the Phoenix Go Red for Women Luncheon is locally sponsored by Arizona Complete Health—the Live Fierce. Be Relentless Platform sponsor—and Dignity Health—the local presenting sponsor. For more information, email phoenixGRFW@heart.org or visit www.heart.org/phxgored .
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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.
About Go Red for Women®
The American Heart Association’s signature initiative, Go Red for Women®, is a comprehensive platform designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally. While the majority of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women. For more than two decades, Go Red for Women has encouraged awareness. The movement harnesses the energy, passion and power of women to band together and collectively wipe out heart disease. It challenges them to know their risk for heart disease and take action to reduce their personal risk. It also gives them tools they need to lead a heart healthy life. The Go Red for Women movement is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, with additional support from national cause supporters. For more information, please visit GoRedforWomen.org or call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721).
For Media Inquiries:
Satara Tinkler; satara.tinkler@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
