Page 84 - South Mississippi Living - February, 2019

HEART MONTH powerful, passionate
The Fight Against Heart Disease
LuAnn Pappas
February is American Heart Month, a time when we come together to raise awareness of heart disease. Some of the biggest ambassadors of American Heart Month are the American Heart Association’s Circle of Red members.
“The Circle of Red is a powerful, passionate group of men and women dedicated to making an impact in
our community’s fight against heart disease and stroke,” says Laura Koury, regional director of the American Heart Association. “They raise awareness for lifesaving programs and research that
Sherri Carr Bevis
fuels the development of medications, scientific advancements, and treatments for cardiovascular disease and stroke
— the number one and number five killers nationwide and right here on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.”
Members of the Circle of Red are committed to ending heart disease through both education and donations to the cause. Participants dedicate one year to improving their own heart health and that of those near and dear to them.
“By joining the Circle of Red, your support helps to fund life-saving research and educational initiatives in our community and its surrounding
Dr. Andrea Davis
areas,” Koury said. “Members are
able to attend exclusive gatherings to hear first hand how their efforts are making a difference in our schools,
in our hospitals, and in the lives of
our friends and neighbors. In turn, these ambassadors share with our community the impact they are making as part of the American Heart Association’s mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.”
Pictured are some of this year’s Circle of Red ambassadors. Not Pictured: Dorothy Shaw, Mary Alexander, Dr. Karen Crews, Helen Werby, Terri Wyly, Rick Spaulding and Kevin Amis.
84 SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living • February 2019
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story by Kelsey Sunderman-Foster photos by Donn Hupp
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