MADISON, Wis. (Nov. 5, 2026) — Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death for women[1] in Madison and across the United States. To change that, the American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, is encouraging women to prioritize their heart health.
Leading that effort locally are Dena Frisch and Shayna Mace of BRAVA Magazine, who are serving as the 2026 co-chairs for Madison Go Red for Women® movement, empowering women to take charge of their heart health, while addressing critical gaps in research, education and care. Go Red for Women is dedicated to helping women lead healthier lives.
"BRAVA’s partnership has been very meaningful with the American Heart Association,” Mace said. “During our advocacy efforts, we’ve spoken with many women who are personally dealing with heart health issues, or, a close family member has had a serious heart event. Heart health should be top of mind for all of us — but especially women — as heart disease is the No. 1 cause of death for us.”
Despite the threat of CVD, less than half of women are aware of its risk[2]. Go Red for Women is committed to closing gaps in access to care and championing a community of support.
Life moves quickly—careers, calendars, and commitments never slow down. But when it comes to women’s heart health, waiting is no longer an option. This event is designed to inspire action and provide practical strategies, so every attendee leaves empowered with clear, achievable steps to protect and improve their heart health.
"Through BRAVA, we connect with thousands of women who lead, give and inspire in our community,” Frisch said. “Shayna and I believe that leadership means using your platform for good. Together, we can amplify the message that heart health is crucial and empower women to prioritize their wellbeing.”
The event will feature expert-led health education, powerful personal stories and actionable insights to help women take charge of their heart health.
Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, and the Madison Go Red for Women Luncheon is locally sponsored by American Family Insurance, Quartz, Zimbrick, Group Health Cooperative, Summit Credit Union, Living in Madison Real Estate, BRAVA Magazine, WKOW and more. For more information, visit Heart.org/MadisonGoRed.
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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:
Travis Sloan: 608-957-5781; Travis.Sloan@Heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
[1] Call to Action for Cardiovascular Disease in Women: Epidemiology, Awareness, Access, and Delivery of Equitable Health Care: A Presidential Advisory From the American Heart Association | Circulation
[2] https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000907
