Go Red for Women Observed Throughout Mon Health System

Go Red for Women Observed Throughout Mon Health System

Morgantown, WV (February 2, 2021) – During February – Heart Month - Mon Health System employees are participating in activities to raise awareness of heart and vascular issues impacting West Virginians particularly women. For more than a decade, Mon Health System hospitals have participated in the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women initiative with employees wearing red on the first Friday in February, which will be February 5 this year.

Mon Health employees as well as the communities we serve are invited to wear red on that day to educate and support women’s heart health. Employees have purchased red ICARE shirts to wear throughout the month as part of the effort with proceeds benefitting Mon Health System’s Colleague Support Fund. A food drive, step challenge and provider educational series are also included this month to recognize heart month and heart and vascular care throughout the system.

“Heart disease kills more women than all forms of cancer combined,” said Dr. Samantha Crites, cardiologist at Mon Health Heart & Vascular. “Most women don’t know that heart disease is their greatest health risk. At Mon Health, we are leading the fight against heart disease and offer a unique approach because like you, your heart is unique.”

Kristi Gannon, RN, a Cardiac Rehabilitation Nurse Manager at Mon Health Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital, outlined common symptoms of cardiac events. “Women and men may often experience differing cardiac symptoms. Unfortunately, some women will fail to acknowledge the seriousness of their symptoms which can be deadly.”

It is also important and lifesaving for a person to take any warning signs seriously, and to ask for help.

Gannon explained that heart attack warning signs can include:
• Chest discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Discomfort in other areas of the upper body
• Other signs which may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness.

Gannon provided suggestions on maintaining a healthy heart.

“Exercise is so important. Walking at least 30 minutes a day cuts your risk of heart disease in half. I would also like every woman to know that heart disease is our number one killer. Mon Health offers a variety of programs to assist with cardiac conditions including cardiac rehabilitation and adult fitness,” Gannon concluded. “February is a good time to think about improving your heart health.”