OKLAHOMA CITY, Sept. 15, 2025 – Mary Blankenship Pointer, a consultant and former senior bank executive, brings a passion for improving women’s heart health to the role of volunteer chairperson of the 2025 Oklahoma City Go Red for Women Luncheon. The local movement and its achievements will be celebrated 11 am.-1 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 6, at the Meinders Hall of Mirrors at the Civic Center Music Hall.
Launched more than two decades ago to increase women’s heart health awareness, Go Red for Women is the Association’s global movement designed to serve as a catalyst for change to improve the health of women. Blankenship Pointer has been an ardent Go Red for Women supporter since its inception, and this is her third stint as chairperson of the OKC luncheon. She is also a longtime member of the Circle of Red giving group.
“Through each of these roles, I’ve witnessed the life-saving impact of the American Heart Association’s mission, and I remain committed to helping advance research, awareness and education in the fight against heart disease,” Blankenship Pointer said.
She knows well the devastating effects of heart disease. Her father passed following a heart attack at age 43, when she was just 9.
“I still vividly remember the moment my mother received the call that changed our lives forever,” says Blankenship-Pointer. “That loss shaped my life in ways that are hard to explain. No child or family should have to experience the trauma that mine did.”
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in women, claiming more lives than all cancers combined. As women grow and change so does their risk for CVD. Unique life stages like pregnancy and menopause can affect that risk. The good news is the majority of cardiovascular disease incidents can be prevented through lifestyle changes and education. Through Go Red for Women, the Association calls on all women to take charge of their health and encourage other women to do the same.
“As a working woman, mother and wife, I know how often we put ourselves last,” Blankenship Pointer said. “We’re committed to our families, careers and communities—but too often, we ignore our own health and the warning signs our bodies give us.
“We tell ourselves we don’t have time to be sick. But that mindset is dangerous. Women need to prioritize preventative care, listen to their bodies and feel empowered to act when something doesn’t feel right.”
Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health and presented locally by OU Health.
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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 100 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
Cyd King: cyd.king@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
