Message From Sue McMurdy, CIO and EVP of First Commonwealth Financial Corporation
It is such an honor to be chosen as this year's Chair for the 2012 Go Red for Women Luncheon and Conference. Although I do not have a compelling personal story about heart disease, I am a breast cancer survivor. And I like to think of myself as not only a survivor, but also a 'thrivor,' as I believe I am better 'after' than I was 'before' my diagnosis.
The message I wish to convey to you today is truly one that comes from my Heart. It is just this: start today to take whatever steps possible to change those things that are within our control. For example, if I can survive breast cancer, and not just survive but thrive, but then die of heart disease-a disease that can be 80% preventable with proper lifestyle- what a waste of me! Furthermore, if I can thrive after breast cancer and have a healthy heart but then find out I am financially unfit, it is again a very sad story about my life.
Today, my wish is that each person reading this will take charge of your total health. Be concerned..... take it one step at a time, but do something every day in every area of your life and challenge those around you to do the same. Be Totally Healthy.
Please take action. Together, we can have a big impact on Women; on Pittsburgh; and on Western Pennsylvania. Thank you.
Message From Nancy Brown
Dear Friends,
Welcome to the Pittsburgh Go Red for Women Luncheon and Conference! We’re delighted you are here and appreciate your interest in learning how you can advance health, stop heart disease and save women’s lives. That’s what the American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women® movement is all about.
Heart disease isn’t just a man’s problem. It’s a woman’s problem, too. In fact, it’s the No. 1 killer of women. And, tragically, far too few women realize their risk from this preventable disease. We need to raise women’s awareness of their risk and protect our mothers, daughters, sisters, friends and ourselves.
You can help, starting today. Here’s how:
First, take charge of your own heart health. Visit your doctor. Know your numbers (learn more at www.GoRedForWomen.org). You can improve your blood pressure, cholesterol and other numbers by making lifestyle changes. You’ll be healthier and look and feel better, too.
Second, join the American Heart Association in making it your mission to fight heart disease in women. Help spread the word that heart disease is women’s No. 1 killer. Share what you learn today with your family and members of your community. Tell five women you want them to live and we can help stop heart disease in our lifetime.
Third and last, consider making a contribution. Your donation today will make a difference in the lives of women here and across the country. You can help fund local and national Go Red activities that support awareness, research, education and community programs that benefit women.
Thank you again for being here. My hope is that you won’t leave today without committing to making a difference by joining the Go Red For Women movement — women everywhere need your help. Only one in five women believes that heart disease is her greatest health threat. We believe reducing risk and preventing heart disease starts with education — and you. There’s so much to do, and so much at stake.
With your commitment, we can help women and their families live longer, stronger lives. Thank you for your generous support.
Warm regards,
Nancy Brown
Chief Executive Officer
American Heart Association
Volunteer Spotlight
Rachel Winner
Pittsburgh Magazine, Advertising Director
For me, chairing the Open Your Heart Committee for Go Red For Women helps me not only professionally, but personally. In business, it is the relationship that I have made with not only my committee members, but the partners of the American Heart Association that have made me more successful in my professional career. Personally, it makes me feel good as a woman to spread the word about the great work the AHA does in my community and nationwide. For me, I do not have ties to heart disease with me or my family, but it is my interest in the mission to be more "heart healthy? for life. It is for those things that I am grateful for the opportunity.
Join Rachel and Make it Your Mission to help in the fight against heart disease in women.