Mohawk Valley Women Come Together for Go Red for Women
Nearly 400 women and community leaders gathered at the Utica University Nexus Center in May for the American Heart Association’s Mohawk Valley Go Red for Women Luncheon, an afternoon dedicated to awareness, advocacy, education, and the power of women sharing their stories. The annual event continues to bring attention to cardiovascular disease, which remains the leading cause of death in women, while also raising critical funds for women’s heart health research, prevention programs, and local community initiatives throughout the Mohawk Valley.
The room was filled with moments that were emotional, inspiring, and deeply personal as survivors took the stage to speak openly about experiences they never imagined facing. Lenora Murad of New Hartford, who was honored during the luncheon, shared her powerful story of surviving mitral valve replacement, heart failure, and stroke. The audience also heard Yalitza Rivera’s story of suffering peripartum cardiomyopathy after the birth of her son, while Kaitlyn McEwen reflected on facing heart disease at an age she never expected. Together, their stories served as reminders that heart disease can impact women of every age, often without warning, and that awareness and early intervention can save lives.
“Cardiovascular disease is still the No. 1 killer of women, and events like this one are essential to raising awareness and providing education so women understand their risks and how to reduce them,” said Staci Thompson, Mohawk Valley Go Red for Women Chair and president and CEO of Bassett Healthcare Network. “Together, we can ensure every woman is supported and no one faces this journey alone.”
Throughout the afternoon, attendees heard from healthcare leaders, advocates, survivors, and community members committed to improving women’s health outcomes across the region. Guests also had the opportunity to connect with local organizations, explore health resources, and support initiatives focused on prevention, education, and access to care.
The luncheon additionally recognized Trisha Barone’s Woman of Impact campaign and honored Jill Hayes of New York Sash with the Joanne Donaruma Wade Women’s Health Award, sponsored by Mohawk Valley Living.
According to the American Heart Association, nearly half of women age 20 and older are living with some form of cardiovascular disease, yet many women still do not fully understand their personal risk or recognize warning signs early enough. Women also face unique risk factors tied to pregnancy, menopause, and other life stages, making education and research especially important.
For many in attendance, the luncheon was about more than statistics. It was about community, support, and ensuring women know they are not alone in their health journeys. Events like Go Red for Women continue to create conversations that encourage women to advocate for themselves, prioritize preventive care, and better understand the importance of heart health at every age.
Donations supporting the Go Red for Women movement are still being accepted at:
American Heart Association Mohawk Valley Go Red for Women
