Heart association fundraiser encourages wearing red
River Park Hospital will once again be supporting the American Heart Association in Warren County by sponsoring a fundraiser followed by a special event on April 11.
In years past, the fundraiser was the Heart Walk followed by a support walk. This year?s fundraiser will be a ?Go Red for Women? campaign, followed by a luncheon. The luncheon will include free health screenings, educational speakers and a silent auction.
One purpose of the American Heart Association is to raise funding for heart disease and stroke research. However, another huge goal is to educate the public to be aware of the signs and risks of these diseases, said Warren County event chairperson Melanie Lanier.
In the past, the event has generated support from local businesses but reaching individuals in hopes of educating the public about the diseases seemed to be lacking. Hence, the need for a change.
?We hope this change gets more people involved,? said Lanier. ?We hope the Go Red for Women luncheon will be successful in doing this. We would like this event to be so powerful that everyone in attendance will be looking forward to next year?s event. If we can make even one individual consider a lifestyle change that could prevent or even reverse the affects of heart disease or stroke, our event will be a success.?
Although the name and activity has changed, the end result remains the same ? all funds benefit the American Heart Association to continue research to fight against heart disease and stroke.
To get the ball rolling, this Friday, Feb. 2, is Go Red for Women?s National Wear Red Day. Participation is easy. Pick a day, and it doesn?t have to be Feb. 2, and ask employees or co-workers to wear any red item of clothing or jewelry on that day and donate $5. In return, participants will receive a Red Dress sticker.
Anyone wishing to get their business involved can contact Tambry Brechon, regional director for the American Heart Association, for more information at 615-340-4102. She will be able to supply posters, collection envelopes and stickers.
The luncheon is scheduled to be held at McMinnville Civic Center on April 11. Free health screenings will begin at 10:15 a.m. and the luncheon starts at 11:30 a.m. During the event, items for the silent auction will be on display and the bidding will begin.
Those people or businesses wishing to participate by attending the luncheon or donating items for the auction are encouraged to contact Melanie Lanier at 473-1009 or 473-2381.