Fresno, Calif., Jan. 16, 2026 — Amy Bies’ first heart attack occurred after she was in a car accident in 2007. Diagnosed as a “non-traditional event” the incident did uncover high cholesterol, a condition that Bies was unaware of and began treating. The second was a more “traditional” event in 2013, however it was no less shocking or impactful. Bies credits the Go Red for Women movement with giving her information, strength and the realization that she wasn’t alone in her journey.

The American Heart Association, devoted to changing the future to a world of healthier lives for all, is working to raise awareness that heart disease and stroke are the leading cause of death for women[1] and can happen at any age with nearly 45% of women over age 20 are living with some form of cardiovascular disease (CVD).[2] On Feb. 6, National Wear Red Day®, people and landmarks across the Central Valley and the nation will “go red” to raise awareness of women’s No. 1 killer. 

Here is how the Central Valley community can engage with the Go Red for Women movement on National Wear Red Day:

  • Wear red and share: add a pop of red to your outfit for a fun and easy way to get involved. Share your red photos on social media using #WearRedDay and #CentralValleyGoesRed.
  • Light your building in red: Join buildings and local landmarks including the fountains at Tesoro Viejo in changing exterior lighting to red to commemorate the Go Red for Women movement.
  • Go red at work: employee engagement ideas include encouraging staff members to wear red, hosting a desk-decorating challenge, using downloadable Wear Red Day virtual meeting backgrounds, planning a walking meeting or offer healthy red snacks in the breakroom to celebrate.
  • Go red at home: snap a family photo in red and share it to elevate awareness. Pets can participate, too!
  • Join Research Goes Red: help ensure more women are represented in scientific discovery. Learn more and join at GoRedforWomen.org/research.

“National Wear Red Day is about joining together to support the health and well-being of our mothers, daughters, sisters and the people who love them,” said Cynthia Cervantes, MSN, RN, NP-c, 2026 Central Valley Go Red for Women volunteer chair and Sr. Clinical Quality Director, CA GBD at Anthem Blue Cross- Medicaid. “I encourage everyone to wear red and use the day as inspiration to do something for your health, like scheduling an annual wellness visit, preparing a heart healthy meal or learning Hands-Only CPR.”

Find resources to support women’s heart health at every age and stage of life at GoRedforWomen.org and learn more about National Wear Red Day at WearRedDay.org. Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health.

Additional Resources:

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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 the Central Valley, find the American Heart Association at heart.org/NorthernCalifornia or on Facebook, X and Instagram.

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

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

heart.org and stroke.org