Go Red for Women 2025

The first Friday of every February marks National Wear Red Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death in women. On this day, buildings, news anchors and community members all wear red to highlight this important issue. National Wear Red Day also kicks off the American Heart Association’s Woman of Impact and Teen of Impact campaigns, which bring the Go Red for Women movement to life in communities across the country. These campaigns shine a spotlight on women’s health and cardiovascular disease, inspiring individuals to take action for their own heart health and for the well-being of the women they know and love.

Throughout the signature 9-week campaign, changemakers are inspired to spread awareness and make a difference. Together, Woman and Teen of Impact nominees and their teams reach thousands of people, motivating them to take charge of their health. At the end of the campaign, the nominee that makes the greatest impact and raises the most funds will be named the Charleston Woman of Impact winner. To date, these women have collectively raised over $130,000 to combat heart disease and stroke.

This year’s local nominees are:

Woman of Impact

» Priscilla Duffy, Kiawah Island Real Estate

“I go red for my son Gavin, who was born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome.”

» Ashley O’Brien, The Pulse Charleston

“I go red for women because women are the backbone of our community, and we all need to empower one another to be our best selves.”

» Courtney Johnson, Atlanta Life Insurance Company

“I go red for women to honor the strength of the women in my family and to make sure that equitable health is available for all.”

» Paula Stubblefield, C.T. Lowndes & Company

“I go red for women to engage, support and elevate other women.”

» Sonia Hanson, SouthState Bank

“I go red for my mom, who is a heart attack and stroke survivor.”

Teen of Impact

» Tess Ferm, student at Porter-Gaud, Miss America organization

“I go red for women because education is empowerment, and the more women we reach, the more lives we can save.”

The Woman of Impact nominees and winner will be recognized at the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women Luncheon on May 22. The event, held at the Charleston Marriott, will also feature a heart-healthy lunch, expo, auction, fashion show and keynote from Dr. Melissa Milanak. Learn more about the Go Red for Women Luncheon at Heart.org/CharlestonGoRed. ϒ