STANDING STRONG IN RED
A Heart Attack Survivor Inspires the Central Valley to Take Action on Feb. 6th
After a car accident in 2007, Amy Bies’ life changed in a way she never expected. She experienced a heart attack. The diagnosis was labeled “non‑traditional” because there was no specific cause. However, the event did reveal a hidden truth: Bies had high cholesterol, a condition she never knew she had. Seven years later, in 2013, she suffered a second, more “traditional” heart attack—just as devastating, just as life‑altering.
Through fear, confusion, and countless unanswered questions, one thing helped her feel less alone: the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women® movement. “Go Red gave me information, strength and the realization that I wasn’t the only one to have a heart attack in my 40’s,” Bies says. “Knowing other women were going through this made all the difference.”
Today, Bies is using her voice to encourage the Central Valley community to join her in a powerful annual tradition: National Wear Red Day on February 6th.
Cynthia Cervantes, Alexandria Cordova, Amy Bies and Janet Coleman. Copyright American Heart Association
Why Wearing Red Matters
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women, and nearly 45% of women aged 20 or older are living with some form of cardiovascular disease. Yet many women still don’t recognize their symptoms, and many don’t believe they’re at risk.
That’s why National Wear Red Day exists—to spark conversation, inspire action and shine a light on women’s heart health.
“National Wear Red Day is about supporting the health and well-being of our mothers, daughters, sisters and the people who love them,” says Cynthia Cervantes, 2026 Central Valley Go Red for Women volunteer chair and Senior Clinical Quality Director at Anthem Blue Cross-Medicaid. “Wear red and use the day as inspiration to schedule an annual wellness visit, cook a heart‑healthy meal or learn Hands‑Only CPR.”
How the Central Valley Can Go Red on Feb. 6th
Whether at home, at work, or in your community, there are countless ways to show your support.
1. Wear Red and Share Your Story
Slip on your favorite red sweater, dress, tie or even socks. Take a photo and share it using
#WearRedDay and #CentralValleyGoesRed to inspire others.
2. Light Up Local Landmarks
Buildings and fountains across the Central Valley, including the Tesoro Viejo fountains, will glow red in support of women’s heart and brain health. If you manage a building, consider joining the movement.
3. Go Red at Work
Encourage your team to:
Host a red‑themed dress day
Decorate desks or common areas
Use red-themed virtual meeting backgrounds
Offer healthy red snacks like berries, apples or peppers
Organize a walking meeting to get hearts pumping
4. Go Red at Home
Families including our furry friends can join in, too! Put on your red gear and take a family photo to help spread awareness.
5. Join Research Goes Red
Women remain underrepresented in scientific research. Help change that by participating in Research Goes Red at www.GoRedforWomen.org/research.
A Call to the Central Valley
For survivors like Amy Bies, National Wear Red Day is more than a moment, it’s a mission.
“It’s about empowering women to know their risks,” Bies says. “If sharing my story inspires even one person to take their heart health seriously, it’s worth it.”
On February 6th, the Central Valley has a chance to stand together—bold, bright and united in red. Together we’ll honor survivors, support loved ones and take steps toward a healthier future.
For resources, stories and information to support women’s heart and brain health at every age and stage, visit www.GoRedforWomen.org. Learn more about National Wear Red Day at www.WearRedDay.org.
Photographer Spark Your Heart Photography
