Grammy Award winner shares how her surprise heart diagnosis inspires her to support the mission of the American Heart Association. As a beloved singer-songwriter and musician, Amy Grant understands first-hand that cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the number one cause of death for women. In 2020, the Grammy Award winner underwent open-heart surgery to correct a rare condition affecting her heart, which her doctor referred to as a “ticking time bomb.”
Because CVD causes 1 in 5 women’s deaths each year, the American Heart Association has worked tirelessly for more than two decades to address awareness of this leading threat to women’s health and close critical clinical care gaps. In this season of gratitude and giving, Grant, who continues to be healthy and strong following her procedure, is calling attention to the urgent need for support to save women’s lives by funding research to better diagnose, treat, and prevent cardiovascular disease.
“In our centennial year of lifesaving work, we continue to relentlessly pursue a world free from cardiovascular disease and stroke, so more people have a great outcome like Amy’s,” said American Heart Association Chief Executive Officer Nancy Brown. The generosity of people who believe in a future free from cardiovascular disease propels the American Heart Association’s fight against heart disease and stroke. Together, we can help ensure everyone everywhere has access to a long, healthy life, especially women impacted by heart disease.”
Grant specifically attributes her increased time to engage in her favorite activities with her loved ones to the research and medical advancements funded by the American Heart Association. The American Heart Association wants those outcomes for all, as nearly 45% of women over the age of 20 are living with some form of cardiovascular disease. The organization has increased focus on education and resources that address the unique cardiovascular risks women face, especially around critical life stages like pregnancy and menopause.
Studies reveal that the underrepresentation of women in clinical trials often results in significant gaps in our understanding of the unique impact of cardiovascular By investing in more inclusive research and strengthening resources tailored to women’s heart health needs, the Association remains committed to bridging these gaps with continued support.art health needs.
Grant stated, “We often overlook the risk to women, yet the numbers tell a story we cannot ignore.” “I’m honored to share my story and ask for people to come together, give generously to the American Heart Association, and make heart health a priority. During this season of giving, when we value aspects such as love, health, family, and friends, a donation to the American Heart Association could potentially save the life of a mother, daughter, or sister.
Making an impact on the future of research programs and initiatives is easier than ever through donation matches established for the giving season. Donors can multiply their impact and drive meaningful change in cardiovascular health across communities by donating to the Association now through December 31. Contributions made this holiday season will support initiatives aligned with the Association’s 2028 Impact Goal. Donors who prefer anonymity enable these match opportunities.
“With every donation, the Association will further its efforts to combat heart disease and stroke through advanced research, education, and community programs,” said Brown. “The generosity of year-end donors will empower the association’s lifesaving work for the next 100 years to help ensure everyone everywhere has the opportunity to live a long and healthy life.”