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Why Do You “Wear Red?”

                 

American Heart Month is dedicated to raising heart health awareness and educating Americans on critical steps to help eliminate cardiovascular disease. Each year, the American Heart Association® designates the first Friday of February as National Wear Red Day® and encourages people from coast to coast to sport red attire and rally around a common goal: saving more women’s lives!

This #WearRedDay, our RQI Partners’ team members were asked who they wear red for and why. Below, learn why they don red today, and every day!

Luciane Zwerkovoski

Luciane Zwerkovoski

Florida

“Participating in Wear Red Day is a meaningful way to remind those around me that heart disease can affect anyone and that being prepared to respond can save a life. Wearing red opens the door to important conversations about heart health and highlights the vital role of high-quality CPR in emergencies. This aligns closely with the mission of the American Heart Association and RQI Partners, which is centered on education, prevention, and equipping people with the skills and confidence needed to act when every second counts.”

Maria Lorza

Maria Lorza

South Carolina

“One more life saved or one more life restored is important to me as a woman. Women’s heart health differs from Men’s Heart Health and it is vital to recognize it so that experts like those that collaborate with the American Heart Association develop solutions that increase survival rates. My mother was affected by a cardiovascular event and was saved because the professionals that treated her were well trained and had the right protocols in place. All ties back to what we do!”

Chase Aldrich

Chase Aldrich

Texas

“I wear red to support all the women in my family who have struggled with cardiovascular disease.”

Torri Armitage

Torri Armitage

Missouri

“I wear red for the future of my children, to ensure they grow up fully informed and equipped to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease.”

Kerry Barker

Kerry Barker

Florida

“I wear red in memory of my cousin, in support of continued research, and in hopes of a healthier future for my daughters.”

Matthew Bates

Matthew Bates

Wyoming

“I wear red as a reminder of compassion and warmth and love, so that I can help provide a better outlook on life.”

Amber Battles

Amber Battles

Texas

“I go red for my mother who has ventricular tachycardia and for myself, as I had Kawasaki’s disease as a baby, which is a disease that attacks the heart. So, I go red to show my gratitude for all of the researchers and physicians who are making great strides in providing cures for heart disease.”

Mindy Beebe

Mindy Beebe

Arizona

“Join us in our mission to save more lives from sudden cardiac arrest – we need all the “red” we can get!”

Barbara Boyd

Barbara Boyd

North Carolina

“I ‘Go Red’ because I care. I ‘Go Red’ because my health is important. I ‘Go Red’ because heart health affects us all. I ‘Go Red’ because when I am healthy, I am a better person.”

Kaylee Boyle

Kaylee Boyle

Kansas

“As women, we are often focused on caring for those around us, but it’s incredibly important to advocate for our own personal wellness. I’m a supporter of National Wear Red Day and empowering women to take control of their heart health. Early intervention, education, and awareness can save lives!”

Stephanie Brown

Stephanie Brown

Texas

“Wearing red symbolizes my embrace of living a heart-healthy lifestyle. And encouraging my family, loved ones and friends to do the same.”

Dale Bulman

Dale Bulman

Florida

“In 2024, I experienced a health challenge that led to important lifestyle changes, including modification of my diet, starting blood pressure medication, and focusing on stress management and my reactions to stress. While these adjustments can be difficult, they are vital steps toward better health and well-being, and I made an all-in commitment to these changes!”

Carrie Burns

Carrie Burns

Florida

“Today and every day, I wear red in honor of my family. My father experienced a heart attack in 2023. We recognize the importance of heart health, and we are so thankful he is still with us today!”

Victoria Carrasquillo

Victoria Carrasquillo

New York

“I wear red to help raise awareness about heart disease and the importance of heart health—something that’s at the core of what we do at RQI Partners. Wearing red encourages others and allows me to stand by the customers of our program in their everyday fight to save lives.”

Choi DooSu

DooSu Choi

New York

“Since COVID, I choose to actively be more health conscious. As I take my health more seriously, I also work to raise heart health awareness and sharing that awareness with those around me.”

Sandi Ciotti

Sandi Ciotti

New York

“I wear red to remind women, including myself, to prioritize self-care and raise awareness about the importance of heart health. It’s a reminder to listen to our hearts, and to not ignore the potential signs of a heart attack or stroke.”

Brittany Coburn

Brittany Coburn

Georgia

“I wear red because my life depends on it! As women we pour everything into others and often forget about our own needs. Self-care and being more health conscious are my goals for 2025! If my overall health is intact, it will trickle down to all of those around me.”

Aly Condon

Aly Condon

Georgia

“I wear red to bring awareness to women about heart health and the importance of taking preventative measures to keep your heart healthy.”

Tami Davenport

Tami Davenport

Texas

“I Go Red for all the women in my life! My big sister (namesake) who passed away from heart complications, my goddaughter who lives with heart complications yet has limited restrictions because of the continued research of the AHA, and my mom whose life was extended due to the scientific discoveries of the AHA. Working for RQI Partners, LLC whose mission is to train everyone in high-quality CPR helps me to give back and honor these amazing and beautiful women who have had such an impact on my life.”

Nicole Drost

Nicole Drost

New York

“My family goes red for Heart Month to honor my Mother-in-Law, who battled atrial fibrillation and experienced a series of mini strokes. Her story reminds us of the critical importance of heart health and the lifesaving work we do every day to support families like ours.”

Heather Enriquez

Heather Enriquez

Arizona

“I wear red to raise awareness and inspire action to fight the number one killer of women.”

Anna Evans

Anna Evans

New York

“I wear red because I am proud to be part of the solution.”

Jeannette Fasolino

Jeannette Fasolino

New York

“I wear red in remembrance of our fellow women we’ve lost and a reminder to take care of our health.”

Alison Fehr

Alison Fehr

New York

“I go red because I want to be around as long as possible for my kids and want to raise awareness so that women everywhere make their health a priority as we work together to take a stand against cardiovascular disease and stroke.”

Betsy Flynn

Betsy Flynn

Illinois

“I wear red to raise awareness about heart health and encourage others to take action against cardiovascular disease. It’s my way of supporting the fight to keep hearts healthy.”

Jamie Friar

Jamie Friar

Arizona

“I’ll go red to help bring awareness to recognizing early warning signs for either a heart attack or stroke. Getting treatment early for the number one killer of women, can help save more women’s lives.”

Christy Futrell

Christy Futrell

Tennessee

“I wear red in memory of my sister-in-law, who tragically passed away from sudden cardiac arrest. This loss deeply impacted her children, my niece and nephew, who were left without their mother. While they are now adults, I often reflect on the milestones and moments they’ve experienced without her presence. My participation in Go Red for Women is dedicated to her memory and to raising awareness of heart disease in women.”

Lauren Gaumer

Lauren Gaumer

Texas

“I go red for my family.”

Fran Graff

Fran Graff

Florida

“I wear red in support of all women and in memory of loved ones lost to cardiovascular disease.”

Crystal Grant

Crystal Grant

South Carolina

“A friend has two sons who both were born with CHD, Congenital Heart Disorder. One of her sons, who is currently 8 years old, has undergone four open heart surgeries to date, with the first surgery occurring at just a few months old. He is currently being monitored again to see if he will have to undergo yet another surgery sooner rather than later. I wear red to support Tanner and his remarkable courage, strength, and resilience.”

Kristy Haschke

Kristy Haschke

Texas

“Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States and can occur at any age. As women we should strive to support our mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends. Let us all be seen and heard to raise awareness of our biggest health risk.”

Ryan Hunt

Ryan Hunt

Indiana

“I wear red for heart health awareness and education, protecting our most valued possession: time with loved ones.”

Jesse Inoncillo

Jesse Inoncillo

New York

“I wear red to raise awareness about cardiac health, especially to my close friends and family.”

Kiara Johnson

Kiara Johnson

New York

“I wear red to make an impact on lives throughout the world. I support a family member and friend with heart conditions to ensure they are not alone in their journey fighting their conditions.”

Brandi Johnston

Brandi Johnston

Florida

“I wear red in support of the American Heart Association to raise awareness about heart health and show my commitment to fighting heart disease.”

Jennifer Joseph

Jennifer Joseph

Florida

“I wear red because it’s a reminder to live boldly: just like the color, life is too short to fade into the background.”

Erin Keely

Erin Keely

Michigan

“I wear red in support of my good friend’s daughter, Yvonne, who is five years old. She was born with a rare heart condition that has resulted in four open heart surgeries by the time she was four years old. Due to the advance medicine and research, I am grateful to say that she is thriving and is not expected to have another surgery until she is a teenager.”

Tim Kernan

Tim Kernan

New Jersey

“Red for the heart, to stand and be strong; For healthy choices, we all must belong. A reminder to care, to live and to thrive; For our hearts’ well-being, we strive and drive.”

MJ Lewis

MJ Lewis

Florida

“I wear red in remembrance of my mother, who was a recipient of lifesaving CPR.”

Karen Linder

Karen Linder

South Carolina

“My passion as a nurse is to help people heal and to save lives. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for people of all genders and races. It is also the leading cause of death in the United States. I wear red because I want to help save more lives from cardiac arrest.”

Christina Maggio

Christina Maggio

New York

“I go red for my mom. She died of sudden cardiac arrest seventeen years ago.”

Kenneth Manning

Kenneth Manning

New York

“I wear red to support heart awareness because it symbolizes the importance of taking care of our cardiovascular health. Red is a powerful color that represents strength and vitality, and by wearing it, I am raising awareness about heart disease, encouraging healthy habits, and supporting efforts to reduce risks related to heart conditions. It serves as a reminder that heart health is crucial for everyone, and we all have a role in preventing heart disease.”

Jessica Manton

Jessica Manton

Delaware

“I am wearing red because I want women to have the same survival odds as men when experiencing cardiac arrest. Women are less likely to receive CPR from bystanders when they need it and it’s time to close the gap, so everyone has equal changes of survival.”

Lisa Mathis

Lisa Mathis

New York

“Participating in Wear Red Day is a meaningful reminder of why high-quality CPR matters and how closely it connects to the work we do every day.

Cardiac arrest can happen anytime, and survival often depends on immediate, effective CPR. Wear Red Day brings visibility to that reality and underscores the importance of strong resuscitation programs, confident responders, and dependable equipment. Lives are saved not just through knowledge, but through preparation, practice, and ongoing support. For our Customer Operations teams, this connection is mission-critical. The service, support, and education we provide ensure customers are ready to deliver high-quality CPR when it matters most. Every troubleshooting call, training session, site visit, and follow-up strengthens the programs that ultimately impact patient outcomes.

Wearing red is more than symbolic — it reflects our shared commitment to the chain of survival. It’s a way to honor the clinicians, educators, and responders who rely on the systems we help sustain, and a reminder that our behind-the-scenes work directly supports lifesaving care in real moments of need.

Wear Red Day reinforces that our work truly makes a difference. Together, our passion and dedication help build the readiness that saves lives.”

Mike McAllister

Mike McAllister

Arizona

“I’m wearing red to shine a light on cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death for women. Women are the heartbeat of our world, and by raising awareness, we can help save lives and bring even more love, strength, and beauty into our lives. Together, we can make a difference!”

Ashton McPartland

Ashton McPartland

Texas

“My ‘why’ is my daughter, Maeve, and all patients and families of those affected by pediatric congenital disorders.”

Candace Murphy

Candace Murphy

Michigan

“I was diagnosed with familial hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol) and have been on medication since I was 16! Routine doctor’s appointments and heart health checks are essential, as if untreated can lead to early heart attacks.”

Ashli Phillips

Ashli Phillips

Virginia

“I wear RED to spread awareness for all women across the globe, to be an advocate for their heart health and focus on healthy habits. I also wear red to honor my female family members who have been impacted by heart disease and cardiac arrest.”

Travis Pittman

Travis Pittman

Washington

“I wear red to advocate for and support women’s heart health. By wearing red, I aim to spark conversations and inspire others to prioritize heart-healthy choices.”

Mike Plajer

Mike Plajer

Indiana

“My mom died in 2017 due to complications of cardiac arrest. I wear red to honor her as well as those that have gone through the same thing. I also wear red because I truly believe in RQIP’s vision which is that nobody should die from cardiac arrest.”

Joan Quinn

Joan Quinn

New York

“I wear red in memory of my mom.”

René Ramón

René Ramón

Texas

“I wear red to support the mission of the American Heart Association. None of us are free from the impacts of heart disease and stroke – we all have loved ones in our lives who have been impacted. Wearing red gives us an opportunity to share the American Heart Association’s mission and lifesaving resources with others.”

Julie Raymond-DeCarlo

Julie Raymond-DeCarlo

Florida

“I wear red because my family has a history of heart issues, and we are SO very grateful for all involved in the mission of saving more lives from cardiac arrest.”

Ben Rhudy

Ben Rhudy

Texas

“I wear red to make a positive impact on the lives of my local and global community every day, and to improve the quality of life for everyone I can, through our solutions, but also how I interact with others.”

Kristen Richardson

Kristen Richardson

Kansas

“I wear red because I not only care about my own health but also all the women in my life. We are always first to take care of those around us and often fail to give the same care and love to ourselves. It’s time we give back to ourselves!”

Sybel Santiago

Sybel Santiago

Georgia

“I wear red to raise awareness about the importance of heart health. Your heart is not just a vital organ; it’s a symbol of life and purpose. As long as your heart beats, you have a unique role to fulfill in this world.”

Heather Seitz

Heather Seitz

Nebraska

“I wear red to help bring awareness to others of the importance of heart health and wellness no matter of age. Having close family members and friends who have experienced heart health challenges, brings even a heightened importance!”

Maeve Shaughnessy

Maeve Shaughnessy

Massachusetts

“I wear red to remember the women who have gone before us, and to recognize the women who are with us today who battle heart disease. Through research, advocacy, and education, we strive to improve the quality of life and chances of survival for heart attacks, stroke, and cardiac arrest for the future generations of women.”

Kyle Slaymaker

Kyle Slaymaker

Arizona

“Wearing red symbolizes my commitment to advocating for heart health and supporting the lifesaving work of organizations like the American Heart Association. It’s a bold and visible statement to remind everyone of the importance of taking care of their hearts.”

Wendy Stock

Wendy Stock

Utah

“I wear red to raise awareness about the leading cause of death among women—heart disease—and to inspire others to take charge of their heart health. I wear red to honor women everywhere, advocating for research, education, and prevention specific to women.”

Ramsey Toban

Ramsey Toban

Tennessee

“I wear read because it represents heart health and awareness, a core mission of the American Heart Association and RQI Partners. It’s a powerful symbol of advocacy for cardiovascular health and a reminder to take action in the fight against heart disease.”

Victoria Valente

Victoria Valente

New York

“I wear red in memory of my grandfather. My family was able to recognize the signs of a stroke and quickly brought him to medical professionals. He ended up receiving quadruple bypass surgery that allowed him to be around for most of my childhood.”

Carrie Ward

Carrie Ward

Florida

“I wear red because my family has a history of heart disease. After my own heart attack last year, I made a commitment to raise awareness and help save more lives.”

Nicole Watkins

Nicole Watkins

Texas

“I wear red for National Wear Red Day to raise awareness about heart disease and its impact on countless lives, including those of women, who are often underrepresented in heart health advocacy. By wearing red, I honor the importance of prevention, education, and research that can save lives and inspire healthier communities. It’s a small yet powerful way to show support and encourage others to prioritize their heart health.”

Amalee Yang

Amalee Yang

Minnesota

“I wear red for my cousin, Jane. She was an amazing person who was taken too soon from a genetic cardiovascular disease.”

Human Resources Team

New York

“Our Human Resources team goes red to raise awareness for women’s heart health. As women, we want our voices to be heard to make an impact for women across the US and around the globe.”

Human Resources Team



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Why Do You “Wear Red?"


Why Do You “Wear Red?"

American Heart Month is dedicated to raising heart health awareness and educating Americans on critical steps to help eliminate cardiovascular disease. Each year, the American Heart Association® designates the first Friday of February as National Wear Red Day® and encourages people from coast to coast to sport red attire and rally around a common goal: saving more women’s lives!

This #WearRedDay, our RQI Partners’ team members were asked who they wear red for and why. Below, learn why they don red today, and every day!

Luciane Zwerkovoski

Luciane Zwerkovoski

Florida

“Participating in Wear Red Day is a meaningful way to remind those around me that heart disease can affect anyone and that being prepared to respond can save a life. Wearing red opens the door to important conversations about heart health and highlights the vital role of high-quality CPR in emergencies. This aligns closely with the mission of the American Heart Association and RQI Partners, which is centered on education, prevention, and equipping people with the skills and confidence needed to act when every second counts.”

Maria Lorza

Maria Lorza

South Carolina

“One more life saved or one more life restored is important to me as a woman. Women’s heart health differs from Men’s Heart Health and it is vital to recognize it so that experts like those that collaborate with the American Heart Association develop solutions that increase survival rates. My mother was affected by a cardiovascular event and was saved because the professionals that treated her were well trained and had the right protocols in place. All ties back to what we do!”

Chase Aldrich

Chase Aldrich

Texas

“I wear red to support all the women in my family who have struggled with cardiovascular disease.”

Torri Armitage

Torri Armitage

Missouri

“I wear red for the future of my children, to ensure they grow up fully informed and equipped to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease.”

Kerry Barker

Kerry Barker

Florida

“I wear red in memory of my cousin, in support of continued research, and in hopes of a healthier future for my daughters.”

Matthew Bates

Matthew Bates

Wyoming

“I wear red as a reminder of compassion and warmth and love, so that I can help provide a better outlook on life.”

Amber Battles

Amber Battles

Texas

“I go red for my mother who has ventricular tachycardia and for myself, as I had Kawasaki’s disease as a baby, which is a disease that attacks the heart. So, I go red to show my gratitude for all of the researchers and physicians who are making great strides in providing cures for heart disease.”

Mindy Beebe

Mindy Beebe

Arizona

“Join us in our mission to save more lives from sudden cardiac arrest – we need all the “red” we can get!”

Barbara Boyd

Barbara Boyd

North Carolina

“I ‘Go Red’ because I care. I ‘Go Red’ because my health is important. I ‘Go Red’ because heart health affects us all. I ‘Go Red’ because when I am healthy, I am a better person.”

Kaylee Boyle

Kaylee Boyle

Kansas

“As women, we are often focused on caring for those around us, but it’s incredibly important to advocate for our own personal wellness. I’m a supporter of National Wear Red Day and empowering women to take control of their heart health. Early intervention, education, and awareness can save lives!”

Stephanie Brown

Stephanie Brown

Texas

“Wearing red symbolizes my embrace of living a heart-healthy lifestyle. And encouraging my family, loved ones and friends to do the same.”

Dale Bulman

Dale Bulman

Florida

“In 2024, I experienced a health challenge that led to important lifestyle changes, including modification of my diet, starting blood pressure medication, and focusing on stress management and my reactions to stress. While these adjustments can be difficult, they are vital steps toward better health and well-being, and I made an all-in commitment to these changes!”

Carrie Burns

Carrie Burns

Florida

“Today and every day, I wear red in honor of my family. My father experienced a heart attack in 2023. We recognize the importance of heart health, and we are so thankful he is still with us today!”

Victoria Carrasquillo

Victoria Carrasquillo

New York

“I wear red to help raise awareness about heart disease and the importance of heart health—something that’s at the core of what we do at RQI Partners. Wearing red encourages others and allows me to stand by the customers of our program in their everyday fight to save lives.”

Choi DooSu

DooSu Choi

New York

“Since COVID, I choose to actively be more health conscious. As I take my health more seriously, I also work to raise heart health awareness and sharing that awareness with those around me.”

Sandi Ciotti

Sandi Ciotti

New York

“I wear red to remind women, including myself, to prioritize self-care and raise awareness about the importance of heart health. It’s a reminder to listen to our hearts, and to not ignore the potential signs of a heart attack or stroke.”

Brittany Coburn

Brittany Coburn

Georgia

“I wear red because my life depends on it! As women we pour everything into others and often forget about our own needs. Self-care and being more health conscious are my goals for 2025! If my overall health is intact, it will trickle down to all of those around me.”

Aly Condon

Aly Condon

Georgia

“I wear red to bring awareness to women about heart health and the importance of taking preventative measures to keep your heart healthy.”

Tami Davenport

Tami Davenport

Texas

“I Go Red for all the women in my life! My big sister (namesake) who passed away from heart complications, my goddaughter who lives with heart complications yet has limited restrictions because of the continued research of the AHA, and my mom whose life was extended due to the scientific discoveries of the AHA. Working for RQI Partners, LLC whose mission is to train everyone in high-quality CPR helps me to give back and honor these amazing and beautiful women who have had such an impact on my life.”

Nicole Drost

Nicole Drost

New York

“My family goes red for Heart Month to honor my Mother-in-Law, who battled atrial fibrillation and experienced a series of mini strokes. Her story reminds us of the critical importance of heart health and the lifesaving work we do every day to support families like ours.”

Heather Enriquez

Heather Enriquez

Arizona

“I wear red to raise awareness and inspire action to fight the number one killer of women.”

Anna Evans

Anna Evans

New York

“I wear red because I am proud to be part of the solution.”

Jeannette Fasolino

Jeannette Fasolino

New York

“I wear red in remembrance of our fellow women we've lost and a reminder to take care of our health.”

Alison Fehr

Alison Fehr

New York

“I go red because I want to be around as long as possible for my kids and want to raise awareness so that women everywhere make their health a priority as we work together to take a stand against cardiovascular disease and stroke.”

Betsy Flynn

Betsy Flynn

Illinois

“I wear red to raise awareness about heart health and encourage others to take action against cardiovascular disease. It's my way of supporting the fight to keep hearts healthy.”

Jamie Friar

Jamie Friar

Arizona

“I’ll go red to help bring awareness to recognizing early warning signs for either a heart attack or stroke. Getting treatment early for the number one killer of women, can help save more women’s lives.”

Christy Futrell

Christy Futrell

Tennessee

“I wear red in memory of my sister-in-law, who tragically passed away from sudden cardiac arrest. This loss deeply impacted her children, my niece and nephew, who were left without their mother. While they are now adults, I often reflect on the milestones and moments they've experienced without her presence. My participation in Go Red for Women is dedicated to her memory and to raising awareness of heart disease in women.”

Lauren Gaumer

Lauren Gaumer

Texas

“I go red for my family.”

Fran Graff

Fran Graff

Florida

“I wear red in support of all women and in memory of loved ones lost to cardiovascular disease.”

Crystal Grant

Crystal Grant

South Carolina

“A friend has two sons who both were born with CHD, Congenital Heart Disorder. One of her sons, who is currently 8 years old, has undergone four open heart surgeries to date, with the first surgery occurring at just a few months old. He is currently being monitored again to see if he will have to undergo yet another surgery sooner rather than later. I wear red to support Tanner and his remarkable courage, strength, and resilience.”

Kristy Haschke

Kristy Haschke

Texas

“Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States and can occur at any age. As women we should strive to support our mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends. Let us all be seen and heard to raise awareness of our biggest health risk.”

Ryan Hunt

Ryan Hunt

Indiana

“I wear red for heart health awareness and education, protecting our most valued possession: time with loved ones.”

Jesse Inoncillo

Jesse Inoncillo

New York

“I wear red to raise awareness about cardiac health, especially to my close friends and family.”

Kiara Johnson

Kiara Johnson

New York

“I wear red to make an impact on lives throughout the world. I support a family member and friend with heart conditions to ensure they are not alone in their journey fighting their conditions.”

Brandi Johnston

Brandi Johnston

Florida

“I wear red in support of the American Heart Association to raise awareness about heart health and show my commitment to fighting heart disease.”

Jennifer Joseph

Jennifer Joseph

Florida

“I wear red because it's a reminder to live boldly: just like the color, life is too short to fade into the background.”

Erin Keely

Erin Keely

Michigan

“I wear red in support of my good friend's daughter, Yvonne, who is five years old. She was born with a rare heart condition that has resulted in four open heart surgeries by the time she was four years old. Due to the advance medicine and research, I am grateful to say that she is thriving and is not expected to have another surgery until she is a teenager.”

Tim Kernan

Tim Kernan

New Jersey

“Red for the heart, to stand and be strong; For healthy choices, we all must belong. A reminder to care, to live and to thrive; For our hearts' well-being, we strive and drive.”

MJ Lewis

MJ Lewis

Florida

“I wear red in remembrance of my mother, who was a recipient of lifesaving CPR.”

Karen Linder

Karen Linder

South Carolina

“My passion as a nurse is to help people heal and to save lives. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for people of all genders and races. It is also the leading cause of death in the United States. I wear red because I want to help save more lives from cardiac arrest.”

Christina Maggio

Christina Maggio

New York

“I go red for my mom. She died of sudden cardiac arrest seventeen years ago.”

Kenneth Manning

Kenneth Manning

New York

“I wear red to support heart awareness because it symbolizes the importance of taking care of our cardiovascular health. Red is a powerful color that represents strength and vitality, and by wearing it, I am raising awareness about heart disease, encouraging healthy habits, and supporting efforts to reduce risks related to heart conditions. It serves as a reminder that heart health is crucial for everyone, and we all have a role in preventing heart disease.”

Jessica Manton

Jessica Manton

Delaware

“I am wearing red because I want women to have the same survival odds as men when experiencing cardiac arrest. Women are less likely to receive CPR from bystanders when they need it and it's time to close the gap, so everyone has equal changes of survival.”

Lisa Mathis

Lisa Mathis

New York

“Participating in Wear Red Day is a meaningful reminder of why high-quality CPR matters and how closely it connects to the work we do every day.

Cardiac arrest can happen anytime, and survival often depends on immediate, effective CPR. Wear Red Day brings visibility to that reality and underscores the importance of strong resuscitation programs, confident responders, and dependable equipment. Lives are saved not just through knowledge, but through preparation, practice, and ongoing support. For our Customer Operations teams, this connection is mission-critical. The service, support, and education we provide ensure customers are ready to deliver high-quality CPR when it matters most. Every troubleshooting call, training session, site visit, and follow-up strengthens the programs that ultimately impact patient outcomes.

Wearing red is more than symbolic — it reflects our shared commitment to the chain of survival. It’s a way to honor the clinicians, educators, and responders who rely on the systems we help sustain, and a reminder that our behind-the-scenes work directly supports lifesaving care in real moments of need.

Wear Red Day reinforces that our work truly makes a difference. Together, our passion and dedication help build the readiness that saves lives.”

Mike McAllister

Mike McAllister

Arizona

“I’m wearing red to shine a light on cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death for women. Women are the heartbeat of our world, and by raising awareness, we can help save lives and bring even more love, strength, and beauty into our lives. Together, we can make a difference!”

Ashton McPartland

Ashton McPartland

Texas

“My ‘why’ is my daughter, Maeve, and all patients and families of those affected by pediatric congenital disorders.”

Candace Murphy

Candace Murphy

Michigan

“I was diagnosed with familial hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol) and have been on medication since I was 16! Routine doctor's appointments and heart health checks are essential, as if untreated can lead to early heart attacks.”

Ashli Phillips

Ashli Phillips

Virginia

“I wear RED to spread awareness for all women across the globe, to be an advocate for their heart health and focus on healthy habits. I also wear red to honor my female family members who have been impacted by heart disease and cardiac arrest.”

Travis Pittman

Travis Pittman

Washington

“I wear red to advocate for and support women's heart health. By wearing red, I aim to spark conversations and inspire others to prioritize heart-healthy choices.”

Mike Plajer

Mike Plajer

Indiana

“My mom died in 2017 due to complications of cardiac arrest. I wear red to honor her as well as those that have gone through the same thing. I also wear red because I truly believe in RQIP’s vision which is that nobody should die from cardiac arrest.”

Joan Quinn

Joan Quinn

New York

“I wear red in memory of my mom.”

René Ramón

René Ramón

Texas

“I wear red to support the mission of the American Heart Association. None of us are free from the impacts of heart disease and stroke - we all have loved ones in our lives who have been impacted. Wearing red gives us an opportunity to share the American Heart Association's mission and lifesaving resources with others.”

Julie Raymond-DeCarlo

Julie Raymond-DeCarlo

Florida

“I wear red because my family has a history of heart issues, and we are SO very grateful for all involved in the mission of saving more lives from cardiac arrest.”

Ben Rhudy

Ben Rhudy

Texas

“I wear red to make a positive impact on the lives of my local and global community every day, and to improve the quality of life for everyone I can, through our solutions, but also how I interact with others.”

Kristen Richardson

Kristen Richardson

Kansas

“I wear red because I not only care about my own health but also all the women in my life. We are always first to take care of those around us and often fail to give the same care and love to ourselves. It’s time we give back to ourselves!”

Sybel Santiago

Sybel Santiago

Georgia

“I wear red to raise awareness about the importance of heart health. Your heart is not just a vital organ; it's a symbol of life and purpose. As long as your heart beats, you have a unique role to fulfill in this world.”

Heather Seitz

Heather Seitz

Nebraska

“I wear red to help bring awareness to others of the importance of heart health and wellness no matter of age. Having close family members and friends who have experienced heart health challenges, brings even a heightened importance!”

Maeve Shaughnessy

Maeve Shaughnessy

Massachusetts

“I wear red to remember the women who have gone before us, and to recognize the women who are with us today who battle heart disease. Through research, advocacy, and education, we strive to improve the quality of life and chances of survival for heart attacks, stroke, and cardiac arrest for the future generations of women.”

Kyle Slaymaker

Kyle Slaymaker

Arizona

“Wearing red symbolizes my commitment to advocating for heart health and supporting the lifesaving work of organizations like the American Heart Association. It's a bold and visible statement to remind everyone of the importance of taking care of their hearts.”

Wendy Stock

Wendy Stock

Utah

“I wear red to raise awareness about the leading cause of death among women—heart disease—and to inspire others to take charge of their heart health. I wear red to honor women everywhere, advocating for research, education, and prevention specific to women.”

Ramsey Toban

Ramsey Toban

Tennessee

“I wear read because it represents heart health and awareness, a core mission of the American Heart Association and RQI Partners. It's a powerful symbol of advocacy for cardiovascular health and a reminder to take action in the fight against heart disease.”

Victoria Valente

Victoria Valente

New York

“I wear red in memory of my grandfather. My family was able to recognize the signs of a stroke and quickly brought him to medical professionals. He ended up receiving quadruple bypass surgery that allowed him to be around for most of my childhood.”

Carrie Ward

Carrie Ward

Florida

“I wear red because my family has a history of heart disease. After my own heart attack last year, I made a commitment to raise awareness and help save more lives.”

Nicole Watkins

Nicole Watkins

Texas

“I wear red for National Wear Red Day to raise awareness about heart disease and its impact on countless lives, including those of women, who are often underrepresented in heart health advocacy. By wearing red, I honor the importance of prevention, education, and research that can save lives and inspire healthier communities. It’s a small yet powerful way to show support and encourage others to prioritize their heart health.”

Amalee Yang

Amalee Yang

Minnesota

“I wear red for my cousin, Jane. She was an amazing person who was taken too soon from a genetic cardiovascular disease.”

Human Resources Team

New York

“Our Human Resources team goes red to raise awareness for women’s heart health. As women, we want our voices to be heard to make an impact for women across the US and around the globe.”

Human Resources Team

How Nova Scotia Health Transformed CPR Training with the RQI Program