PLATTSBURGH, NY - Getting dressed for the day is not typically thought of as a lifesaving activity. In this case, it could do exactly that for women in the North Country and across America.

The Foundation of Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) is asking businesses and community members in northern New York to join millions of people in rocking their red as part of “National Wear Red Day” on Feb. 7. The day is dedicated to raising awareness about efforts to end heart disease and stroke while spreading the word about the risks and how to prevent heart disease. 

“Losing even one woman to cardiovascular disease is too many,” says Michelle Senecal, Foundation of CVPH Events and Special Projects Manager. “Who will you wear red for? Whether it’s a loved one, co-worker or neighbor, this is an easy way to make a real difference in their lives and their health.”

The Foundation is asking local businesses and residents to wear red and donate $5 in honor of someone they know who has been affected by heart disease. It is also offering a red logo pin for $10. Businesses interested in participating or getting more information can contact Senecal at 518-314-3359 or email her at msenecal [at] cvph.org.

Money raised through this National Wear Red Day event will go toward a $1.2 million cardiac and pulmonary rehab expansion project at the hospital. The upgraded center will more than double the number of cardiac patients who can undergo rehab and open up a new pulmonary rehab program.

More than 60 million women in the United States are living with some form of heart disease, and it is the leading cause of death for women in the country, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) says on average, 86 women in Clinton County die each year from heart disease.

“By wearing red and giving a small gift to The Foundation, you’re helping people with heart and lung disease live fuller lives,” Senecal adds.