The upcoming Tulsa Go Red for Women Luncheon on October 2, 2025, at the Arvest Convention Center marks an essential event in the fight against heart disease, a leading cause of death among women. Hosted by the American Heart Association and sponsored nationally by CVS Health, this year’s event brings together approximately 200 supporters in a shared mission to promote heart health awareness and raise critical funds for women’s cardiovascular health.
Main Focus: Women’s Heart Health
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) poses a significant threat to women’s health, with statistics indicating that nearly 45% of women over the age of 20 live with some form of heart disease. Alarmingly, women often remain underrepresented in clinical studies, leading to gaps in diagnosis and treatment. This disparity has persistent implications, exacerbating the need for dedicated outreach programs like the Go Red for Women campaign.
Survivor Stories: Illuminating the Urgent Need
At the heart of the event’s mission is the testimony of local survivor Marguerite Steele, who underwent open-heart surgery earlier this year. Steele discovered her heart condition—a malfunctioning mitral and tricuspid valve—through a simple checkup, showcasing the vital role of early detection. "I faced mortality in a way that I never have," she said, emphasizing the emotional turmoil but also highlighting the invaluable community support she found in the Go Red for Women movement.
Steele’s journey illustrates the importance of education and awareness that events like the Go Red for Women Luncheon aim to foster. Her experience resonates with many women, detailing the challenges they face when confronted with serious health issues and the supportive sisterhood that can emerge from these experiences.
Keynote Speaker: Marsha Martin
The luncheon will feature Marsha Martin as the keynote speaker—a well-respected entrepreneur and philanthropist with a remarkable story of resilience. Martin, founder of Onyx Brands Inc., has a commendable history in both business and community service. Her entrepreneurial journey began at Walmart, where she worked closely with the retail giant’s founder, and flourished as she expanded her line of beauty products into well-known retail outlets.
Megan Korn, Executive Director of the American Heart Association in Tulsa, praises Martin’s vision and unwavering commitment to women’s health. “Her commitment to women’s health and her leadership in both business and philanthropy make her an inspiring voice for this year’s luncheon,” Korn states.
The Tulsa Circle of Red
This year’s luncheon will also pay tribute to the Tulsa Circle of Red, a dedicated network of advocates and leaders zealous about combating heart disease in women. Led by Kim Owen of Bama Companies, the Circle of Red focuses on raising awareness, fostering community engagement, and promoting a proactive culture around women’s health. The collective efforts of this group exemplify how collaboration can transform public health initiatives and make a tangible difference.
The Go Red for Women Movement
Since its inception, the Go Red for Women movement has mobilized a passionate community to push for awareness around cardiovascular disease and its impact on women. With over two decades of commitment, the initiative challenges women to understand their risk factors, take proactive measures for heart health, and advocate for equitable healthcare access.
The initiative also emphasizes lifestyle changes that can significantly reduce risks, offering resources for women to champion their own health and that of their loved ones. Attendees are encouraged to wear red as a symbol of their dedication to the cause, reinforcing the strength of unity in the fight against heart disease.
The Role of the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association has been at the forefront of this movement, leveraging more than a century of health advocacy and research to drive significant changes in public health policy. With a commitment to ensuring equitable health for all, the Association supports initiatives that empower women, fund essential research, and advocate for improved healthcare services.
As heart disease claims more lives than all cancers combined, the urgency of their mission cannot be overstated. The organization’s various programs and resources serve as critical lifelines for those grappling with heart disease, ensuring they receive the education and support necessary to navigate their health journeys.
The Road Ahead
The Go Red for Women Luncheon stands as an important milestone in the ongoing battle against heart disease. By raising awareness and funds, the event not only celebrates the resilience of women but also highlights innovation in healthcare and community engagement.
With events like this, we can foster an environment where women’s voices are heard, health disparities are addressed, and every woman feels empowered to advocate for her own heart health. It serves as a powerful reminder of the collective capability to make impactful changes both in our individual lives and in community health.
For those interested in joining this vital cause, further information is available at www.heart.org/TulsaGoRed, where individuals can learn more about the Go Red for Women campaign and how to participate in upcoming initiatives.
In summary, the Tulsa Go Red for Women Luncheon is not only a gathering of supporters united in their fight against cardiovascular disease but also an opportunity for education, advocacy, and community. By participating in such initiatives, we can all play a part in transforming women’s health outcomes for the better.
