February is American Heart Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about heart health, particularly for women. In recognition of National Wear Red Day and the Go Red for Women initiative, the Northwest AHEC team gathered at Hanes Mall in Winston-Salem for a staff engagement meetup focused on heart health.

The event began with a team walk inside the mall, a perfect venue for staying active on a chilly February day. Walking is a simple yet effective way to promote heart health, and our team always enjoys incorporating movement into our meetups. We covered several miles while reinforcing the importance of regular physical activity in maintaining cardiovascular wellness.

Following our walk, we enjoyed a heart-healthy lunch while engaging in an informative presentation by our very own Leslie D. McDowell, DNP, ANP-BC, RN. She delivered an insightful talk on the importance of "knowing your numbers"—emphasizing that "you can’t manage what you don’t measure." Leslie provided valuable guidance on key health indicators such as blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), cholesterol levels, and other vital statistics that contribute to overall heart health.

In addition to learning about health metrics, we discussed the nutritional aspects of our meal. The conversation touched on USDA recommendations regarding calories, sodium, fat, and added sugars, reinforcing the impact of dietary choices on heart health.

The event served as a powerful reminder that small, intentional steps—whether through movement, nutrition, or regular health check-ups—can make a significant difference in preventing heart disease. We encourage everyone to take an active role in their heart health and to learn more about the Go Red for Women initiative by visiting Go Red for Women.

At Northwest AHEC, we remain committed to fostering a culture of health and wellness among our staff and the communities we serve. We look forward to more opportunities to engage, learn, and support one another in leading heart-healthy lives!