Heart on the Hill 2016

Guest Blogger: Marc Watterson, Utah Government Relations Director

This past Friday volunteers from across the state gathered at the Utah State Capitol as we celebrated National Wear Red Day with our annual “Heart on the Hill” Lobby Day. Advocates just like you had a chance to listen directly from State Legislators as they discussed important legislation that impacts cardiovascular health: Tobacco Use, Affordable Healthcare, and Safe Routes to School. You’re the Cure advocates then had a chance to take their message to their legislators as they discussed these important policies with them.

A special feature this year was an opportunity for us to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the Utah Indoor Clean Air Act. Working with Representative Paul Ray and Senator Ralph Okerlund we were able to streamline the passage of HCR 2, which recognizes this important anniversary as well as honoring the men and women who made it available, in particular the late Representative Gerald Woodmansee and David Hughes Horne. We were honored to have David Horne with us as well as many members of both families – some who had traveled as far as California to be here with us!

The day culminated with a very special signing ceremony for HCR 2 with Governor Herbert and his staff. We were pleased to also be joined by Dr. Joseph Miner, Director of the Department of Health and Alan Matheson, Director of the Division of Environmental Quality. A very special thanks to Governor Herbert who was very gracious with his time and stayed so all of our volunteers could have their picture taken with him.

A very special thanks to AHA Staff who helped put the event together, members of the local Board of Directors who supported the event, Western States Affiliate Board President Dr. Kirk Knowlton who was in attendance and addressed our advocates, IASIS Healthcare who provided breakfast and health screenings, and the many volunteers and family members who took the time to make this event an overwhelming success! In all we had nearly 100 attendees for this amazing event – and it all is thanks to the support we receive from our active volunteers from across the state. It was truly a moment to remember that when we are all committed to a singular goal that we can all be the cure for cardiovascular disease and stroke!