February is a very important month for me for a few reasons. Let’s see. We’ve got my dad’s birthday, several friend birthdays, VALENTINE’S DAY and Go Red for Women.
I first heard about Go Red for Women when I was a community reporter in Madison Heights. The city was really proactive in raising money for the American Heart Association and raising heart health awareness with its employees, specifically they’re female employees since heart disease is such a terrible killer for women. The city passed out red dress pins to employees, posted info on healthy eating and different ways to get active. I thought it was all great.
That was 2005. Two years later I found out I had high blood pressure. Bleck. Right away I became a huge supporter of Go Red for Women. After it was determined my high blood pressure was a delicious result of genes, stress and lifestyle, I stepped back and realized, “Crap. I drink a ton of diet pop in a day. I eat at least one Lean Cuisine (if not two) per day. I like condiments. CRAP.” I cut out all of that, with a few exceptions in moderation. I took medication for a while, but went off it with more food swaps. I know I can do even more, but sometimes it’s hard to change old habits!
So that’s why February is important to me. I think “Go Red” is a great initiative. I’m sure some people put it right up there with breast cancer activism. I used to be annoyed with all the branded products, but honestly, if it raising money and you enjoy it, roll with it.
I just joined the Go Red for Women social network. Should be interesting! I’m always intrigued when cause-oriented campaigns dig deep into the Internet. As you can see from my sidebar, I support the ASPCA. I think they do a great job online
I received the 2009 Go Red Swarovski bracelet as a gift after Edie died. I wear it every day to remind of both her and being healthy. Swarovski is just one of the companies involved with Go Red products. Definitely check some of them out. This Friday, Feb.6, is “Wear Red for Women Day.” Wear red if you feel so motivated. And more importantly, take care of your ticker!