Advocating for Heart Day at the Capitol

Oklahoma lawmakers and You’re the Cure advocates kicked-off Heart Month on Thursday, February 8^th at the Oklahoma State Capitol. The American Heart Association Oklahoma Advocacy Team hosted an Advocating for Heart event in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to raise awareness of National Wear Red Day and the Go Red for Women movement. Nearly forty-five volunteers from throughout Oklahoma joined us a for packed day of advocacy.

In order to bring in new voices to the event, Yanet Trejo, AHA’s Multicultural Initiatives Director in Oklahoma, had 20 Vestido Rojo Madrinas in attendance. Madrinas are influential Hispanic women that are committed to wiping out heart disease and act as health ambassadors for their family, friends and community. The day began in the gallery in the House Chamber for the presentation of House Resolution 1023 by Representative Cyndi Munson, officially proclaiming the day as Wear Red Day in Oklahoma.

Pictured: Advocates gather with Representative Cyndi Munson

Following the resolution presentation, Charelle Thompson, a heart survivor advocate, shared her powerful story followed by an advocacy training led by Senior Government Relations Director Jordan Endicott. Next, advocates split up into groups and were able to meet with legislators and legislative staff to share their story, information about the Go Red for Women movement, and the AHA’s advocacy priorities.

Pictured: Bipartisan group of Oklahoma State Senators show their support by Going Red

Pictured: Governor Fallin greets AHA’s advocates at the Capitol

Afterward, advocates gathered on the fourth-floor rotunda staircase for a group photo with Governor Mary Fallin, where she thanked volunteers and staff for their continued efforts in the fight against heart disease and stroke.    

The day ended with a heart-healthy lunch, musically accompanied by a special song presentation by Miss Bricktown Teen, Emily Faith.

Thank you to all the volunteers and staff that made this day a great success!