Health
American Heart Association Names Woman of Impact Nominees on Go Red Day
MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TX – To kick off February as American Heart Month, two leaders in the Gulf Coast region are joining the American Heart Association to fight their number one health threat, cardiovascular disease (CVD) through its Woman of Impact initiative. This initiative supports the American Heart Association’s mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.
As the Association celebrates its 100th birthday, efforts driven by these nominees will be key as the organization enters its second century of saving lives and advancing health and hope for everyone. Nominees participating in Woman of Impact will raise funds and awareness to support the Go Red for Women® movement and women’s health and well-being.
“Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, claiming more lives than all cancers combined, so it’s vital for people of all ages to take charge of their heart health and encourage others to do the same,” said Kellie Armstrong, Sr. Executive Director, AHA, Gulf Coast region. “While we have made a lot of progress over the last century, there is still a lot of work to be done. I am here to encourage others to raise their voices and make sure the Montgomery County and Gulf Coast communities know how to take steps now to protect our hearts later – and each of the nominees is helping champion that message and bring our work directly to even more people.”
The Woman of Impact nationwide initiative will be launched in hundreds of cities across the country on National Wear Red Day, this Friday, February 2nd. At the start of the campaign, hundreds of nominees nationwide embark on a nine-week journey to help transform heart health through education and fundraising. Each week, nominees and their team members participate in activities designed to create a culture of wellness and health equity. Activities may include educational events, learning and spreading the word about CPR, getting active, recruiting friends and family to participate in research, and more.
Montgomery County’s 2024 Woman of Impact Nominees for the Gulf Coast region are Veronica Jones and Alison Veldekens.
Veronica Jones is the enigmatic Team Lead and Owner of Keller Williams Professionals in Spring, one of the largest brokerages in the Greater Houston Area with over 400 agents underneath her. She is passionate about bringing awareness to women’s health issues, especially heart disease and stroke, having lost her mother to heart disease. She hopes to make an impact in the health of the community she serves, as well as in the health of her team members who are joining her on this journey. More information can be found at www2.heart.org/goto/VeronicaWOI.
Alison Veldekens is a beloved longtime resident of The Woodlands, where she has lived since 1998. She also has strong ties to the East Coast where she grew up. She and her husband Vernon Veldekens own the Marcel Group. Alison is also a Real Estate Agent for Keller Williams Luxury with the Haley Garcia Group and owns Impressions Real Estate Photography. She also has her BS in Dental Hygiene from the University of Maryland. Alison is passionate about her philanthropic work and in making an impact in the health of the people of Montgomery County with the support of her friends and family. More information can be found at www2.heart.org/goto/AlisonWOI.
“By using their influence, their local networks and their unique experiences, Veronica and Alison are able to make a measurable difference in the Gulf Coast area and we are so grateful for both of them,” said Paola Riviello-Seañez, Development Director of Montgomery County’s Go Red for Women campaign. “The Woman of Impact initiative truly embodies the power of coming together to create important and lasting change for good.”
While the large majority of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease continues to take the life of 1 in 3 people.
To learn more about the American Heart Association in the Gulf Coast area and around the United States visit www.heart.org.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 – our Centennial year – we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on www.heart.org, Facebook, X, or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
About Go Red for Women®
The American Heart Association’s signature initiative, Go Red for Women®, is a comprehensive platform designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally. While the majority of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women. For more than two decades, Go Red for Women has encouraged awareness. The movement harnesses the energy, passion and power of women to band together and collectively wipe out heart disease. It challenges them to know their risk for heart disease and take action to reduce their personal risk. It also gives them tools they need to lead a heart healthy life. The Go Red for Women movement is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, with additional support from national cause supporters.
For more information, please visit www.GoRedforWomen.org or call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721) or contact Katharine Perrow at katharine.perrow@heart.org.
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