The American Heart Association’s Red Dress Collection Concert kicked off American Heart Month on February 1, 2025, at the Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City. This vibrant event not only entertained but also served as a significant platform to raise awareness about cardiovascular health, particularly among women, who are disproportionately affected by heart disease.
Sharon Stone, the evening's host and a stroke survivor, opened the event by sharing her personal battle with heart disease through her family's history. Stone's heartfelt remarks underscored the seriousness of the cause, reminding attendees of the gravity of strokes and heart disease among women. “I refused to let my massive stroke define me. It could have wiped out my entire life — my career, my marriage, the custody of my kid, everything,” she said, inspiring many with her resilience.
The highlight of the concert included musical performances from Suki Waterhouse and two-time Grammy winner Sara Bareilles, who captivated the audience with hits like 'Love Song' and 'Brave'. Bareilles even cheekily asked the audience, “Did I just stumble on the answer to world peace?” leading to soft whistling and interactive moments during her performance.
Adding to the excitement was the celebrity-driven fashion showcase, with participants waltzing the runway adorned in eye-catching red ensembles from various designers. Country singer Carly Pearce, actress Abigail Spencer, and Miss America 2025 Abbie Stockard were just some of the celebrities who strutted their stuff, showcasing the event's unique blend of glamour and activism. It was more than just fashion; it was about driving home the message of heart health.
Noteworthy moments included NFL player Damar Hamlin, who made headlines earlier for his near-fatal cardiac incident on the field, contributing to the evening’s theme of survival and awareness. Throughout the concert, attendees wore red dresses, joining the movement to symbolize the urgency of tackling heart disease.
Also shining bright was the award presentation; Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association, presented Sarah 'Sally' Ross Soter the Woman Changing the World award for her lifelong dedication to women’s health initiatives and cardiovascular research. This recognition highlighted how collective efforts continue to advance women's heart health awareness.
The statistics elucidated during the night painted a stark reality. According to the American Heart Association’s 2025 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics Update, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death among women, surpassing cancer and accidents combined. This grave statistic spurred conversations about the Go Red for Women movement, which aims to educate women on reducing their personal heart disease risk.
Stone was adamant about the necessity of recognizing stroke signs, urging the audience: “We must be unapologetic in our endeavors to be there for each other now more than ever. It’s not because we can, but because we care.” Her call to action reverberated throughout the venue, transforming the glamorous evening of entertainment and fashion purposes infused with genuine concern.
To close the event, the focus turned back to the need for education around heart disease and strokes. AHA leaders urged attendees to take CPR training and learn the signs of heart attacks and strokes, stressing the importance of community and vigilance. The music, the stories, and the glamour of the evening blended perfectly, creating not just awareness but hope for many affected by heart diseases.
Reflecting on the Red Dress Collection Concert, it’s clear this event transcended its celebratory nature. It stood as both a tribute to those who have suffered and survived from heart disease and as a stark reminder of the work still needed to raise awareness and provide education on this leading cause of death among women.