FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Feb. 2, 2004

CONTACT: Stephanie Tveidt, 605-773-3213

First Lady Jean Rounds encourages heart healthy women

PIERRE, S.D. – During February, First Lady Jean Rounds is encouraging South Dakota women to join others from across the country in supporting Go Red for Women, the American Heart Association’s campaign to raise awareness of women’s number one killer, heart disease.  

“I encourage every woman to take charge of her own life by joining in this program to reduce their chances of heart disease and stroke,” said Rounds.  “It is important that we all exercise, eat healthy, schedule and keep doctor appointments, and quit smoking. This program is designed to help women of all ages build healthier families and a healthier South Dakota.” 

“There is no better time for women to take charge of their health,” said director of public policy for the American Heart Association of South Dakota, Darren Smith.  “Heart disease kills nearly 976 women in South Dakota each year alone.”

First Lady Jean Rounds is encouraging South Dakotans to wear red on Friday, Feb. 6, National Wear Red Day for Women to show support for all women who have been touched by heart disease or stroke.

“Red is the American Heart Association’s color for women and heart disease,” said Rounds.  “It symbolizes women’s power to take control of their health, along with a passion for those who have been affected.”

Today, Feb. 2, the First Lady reminded Legislatures to eat healthy and to wear red on Friday by distributing apples and red postcards.

The Go Red for Women campaign outlines a plan to help women take steps to make heart disease prevention a part of their daily lives.  Women can call toll free 1-888-MY HEART or visit www.americanheart.org to receive a Go Red educational brochure and red dress pin, to register or to receive more information about campaign sponsors, donations, risk factors and personal stories. 

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