FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290

First Lady Champions Heart Health At Go Red for Women Luncheon

KANSAS CITY–First Lady Melanie A. Blunt is urging Missouri women to be active participants in the health of their hearts. The First Lady today addressed volunteers and participants at the American Heart Association's Go Red for Women Luncheon. Mrs. Blunt serves as the Honorary Go Red for Women Chair for the State of Missouri and was honored at the luncheon.

"I have enjoyed working with the American Heart Association and the many amazing Go Red for Women volunteers," Mrs. Blunt said. "Heart disease claims the lives of more than 10,000 Missouri women every year and it remains our No. 1 killer. I appreciate the opportunity to help raise awareness of this important initiative for women in our region. Governor Blunt and I will continue to encourage Missouri women to take proactive steps to reduce the risk of heart disease."

Mrs. Blunt thanked the more than 600 luncheon attendees for being a part of the volunteer force that supports the Go Red for Women campaign every year.

In Missouri alone, heart disease claims the lives of more than 10,000 women annually. Though heart disease can largely be prevented, it remains the leading cause of death for women in our state.

This February Governor and Mrs. Matt Blunt participated in several Go Red for Women activities. They hosted a tea for volunteers at the Mansion and worked to raise awareness about heart disease and to encourage healthy lifestyles that promote heart health and improve wellness. Gov. Blunt issued a proclamation recognizing the importance of the ongoing fight against heart disease and declaring February 14, "Wear Red Day for Women" in Missouri. The governor's proclamation urges all citizens to show their support for women and the ongoing fight against heart disease and stroke by wearing red.

Go Red For Women is the American Heart Association's national call to increase awareness about heart disease and to inspire women to take charge of their heart health. For more information visit Go Red for Women's official Internet site at: www.goredforwomen.org/.