Daniel Martinez
Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women, yet only 44% recognize it as their greatest health threat. To help spread lifesaving awareness, 12 women from across the country have been selected to represent the American Heart Association’s nationwide Go Red for Women movement in 2026.
The class of survivors will share their inspiring personal stories of heart disease and stroke to help women across the country understand and embrace heart health at every age and every stage of life. Often the surprising faces of cardiovascular disease, the survivors will raise awareness and inspire others to take charge of their health and well-being.
This year’s class includes Emilee Sparks (pictured) of Summerville, South Carolina, who was born with a congenital heart defect, survived a sudden cardiac arrest at school, and had a heart transplant. Emilee moved to the Lowcountry from Colorado in high school and enrolled at Ashley Ridge High School. Determined for a fresh start and never wanting to be treated differently from her peers, she only told a few close friends about her health problems. In November 2024, while rushing to class, she collapsed from sudden cardiac arrest. CPR-certified school nurses helped her regain consciousness quickly. But over the next few months, her heart condition worsened, and at 18 she had a heart transplant. Emilee hopes to empower other young patients to share their stories and know that they aren’t alone.
“Heart disease has been part of my story since the day I was born,” said Emilee. “I am living proof that advances in research and technology truly save lives. Now, I’m on a mission to make sure that heart disease doesn’t stop other women like me from living longer, healthier, and happier lives.”
First launched in 2008 as the Go Red for Women Real Women class of survivors, these national ambassadors serve a one-year volunteer term. In addition to sharing her story through social media and nationwide news media, Emilee will take part in many local events in the Charleston community, including National Wear Red Day, the Lowcountry Heart Walk, and the Charleston Go Red for Women Luncheon.
Read and be inspired by the stories of the 2026 class of Go Red for Women survivors at www.goredforwomen.org/