LITTLE ROCK, Ark., Aug. 8, 2025 — The American Heart Association-Central Arkansas today unveiled the 2025 Central Arkansas Go Red for Women Survivor Gallery at Trapnall Hall, honoring six local women and girls whose powerful stories of survival bring urgent attention to the No. 1 killer of women: cardiovascular disease.

Next, the six will be honored at the 2025 Central Arkansas Go Red for Women Luncheon, Thursday, Oct. 16, at Robinson Center.

The gallery features portraits and personal narratives of survivors Emma Grace Bradley, Mia Larkin, Patrice Greene, Tina Bailey, Tori-Beth Poland and Yolanda Hervey. Each woman’s journey reflects courage, resilience and the life-saving importance of heart health awareness.

“These women are more than survivors — they are advocates, role models and living proof that heart disease doesn’t discriminate by age, background or lifestyle,” said Nikki Smith, executive director of the Little Rock office. “Their stories remind us why the Go Red for Women movement matters.”

The event, emceed by former Miss Arkansas Cori Keller, brought together survivors’ families, medical professionals, American Heart Association board members, sponsors and volunteers to celebrate the honorees and spotlight the mission of Go Red for Women: to raise awareness, inspire action and save lives. Speakers also included former Arkansas First Lady Susan Hutchinson, local board chairperson Brandy Harp, 2025 Miss Arkansas Kennedy Holland and Circle of Red co-chairperson Arnessa Bennett.

Why It matters

  • Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women in the U.S., claiming more lives than all forms of cancer combined.
  • Many symptoms go unrecognized, especially in women, making education and awareness critical. 
  • Survivor stories like these help break the silence, encouraging women to know their numbers, recognize warning signs and advocate for their health.

2025 Central Arkansas Go Red for Women survivors:

  • Tina Bailey survived congestive heart failure with an ejection fraction of just 10%. Despite setbacks, she continues to fight for her health with determination and grace.
  • Emma Grace Bradley, 18, was born with multiple rare congenital heart defects and defied early predictions that she might never walk or talk. Today, she’s a thriving student-athlete and public speaker.
  • Patrice Green survived a life-threatening aortic dissection after being misdiagnosed in an ER waiting room. Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-advocacy and timely care.
  •  Yolanda Hervey suffered a stroke in her 40s due to untreated high blood pressure. Her message is clear: listen to your body, and don’t wait to seek help.
  • Mia Larkin, 11, underwent life-saving heart surgery as an infant after a routine X-ray revealed a dangerously narrow aorta. She now lives with two monitored heart conditions and a passion for leadership.
  • Tori-Beth Poland, diagnosed with a rare genetic heart condition linked to muscular dystrophy, lives with the knowledge that she may one day need a heart transplant — but refuses to let that define her.

Go Red for Women is a global movement with impact across the United States and in more than 50 countries around the world. The local event will feature a panel of prominent health professionals sharing information specific to women’s health, awarding of the annual Jean C. McSweeney Ph.D., RN Women in Medicine Award, a survivor fashion show and more. For tables, tickets and more information, go to heart.org/CentralARGoRed or contact LaConda Watson at Laconda.Watson@heart.org

Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS 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 or X 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