Anchorage, Alaska, Mon. Feb. 2, 2026 — Nearly 45% of women over the age of 20 are living with some form of cardiovascular disease (CVD).1 To kick off American Heart Month this February, Kristin George is joining the national Woman of Impact™ initiative to raise awareness about women’s number one killer and raise funds that will work to end CVD.  

The Heart Association's Woman of Impact program rallies local changemakers, through the Go Red for Women® movement, to improve women’s heart and brain health, address clinical care gaps and raise funds for cardiovascular research and education.  

The Woman of Impact class will begin their campaigns on National Wear Red Day®, Feb. 6. Nominees will dedicate nine weeks to transforming the health of women in their communities through education and fundraising. Each week, nominees participate in activities designed to create a culture of wellness and advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere.    

Anchorage’s 2026 Woman of Impact Nominee is: 

  • Kristin George, Absolutely North Consulting 

 The competition will culminate on April 9 and George will compete with other regional winners for the chance to be named the 2026 National Woman of Impact Winner. 

 “Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in women, claiming more lives than all cancers combined, and yet less than half of women are aware of this,” said Chrissy Colucci, executive director, American Heart Association, Alaska. “The Woman of Impact campaign will help to close the awareness gap in Alaskan by bringing women together, sharing information about risks and inspiring women to take charge of their health. Working together, we can ensure every woman is heard and seen.” 

 To learn more about the Woman of Impact campaign, visit WomanofImpact.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. In Alaska, connect with us on heart.org/Alaska, Facebook, Instagram or X. 

 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:  

Valerie Koch, valerie.koch@heart.org  

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

heart.org and stroke.org