Page 62 - South Mississippi Living - December, 2024

GIVING BACK
story by Lynn Lofton photos courtesy of American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a force for a world of longer, healthier lives. They 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,” said Christin LeBoeuf, executive director of the Coastal Mississippi chapter. “Social determinants of health have created health disparities in Mississippi. Through our most recent community assessment, Mississippi’s primary areas of need are around nutrition security, hypertension, and maternal health with an emphasis on blood pressure control for new moms.”
Through local work and with the support of shareholders, the chapter is focused on improving the health of all Mississippians and providing access to those most in need.
The biggest events in South Mississippi are the Jackson County Heart Walk on May 3, 2025, and the Gulf Coast Heart Walk on September 27, 2025. The funds raised from these Heart Walks go toward research, advocacy, CPR training and to promote better health in support of the Association’s 2028 Impact Goal, to drive breakthroughs and implement proven solutions in
science, policy, and care for healthier people and communities. “During American Heart Month each February, the
nation comes together to ignite a wave of red from coast to coast,” LeBoeuf said. “From landmarks to news anchors to neighborhoods to online communities, this annual groundswell unites millions of people in a common goal: to end heart disease and stroke. We encourage you to wear red to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease and help save lives.”
National Wear Red Day is February 7, 2025.
American Heart Association Mississippi Gulf Coast 228.261.7018 www.heart.org/en/affiliates/mississippi
62 | December 2024
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