Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in New Hampshire and across the United States, yet fewer than half of women recognize it as their greatest health risk. The American Heart Association (AHA) aims to change that through its Go Red for Women campaign, which promotes awareness, education, and research around women’s heart health.
Dr. Matthew Gibb, chief clinical officer and cardiologist at Concord Hospital Health System, will serve as chair of the 2026 New Hampshire Go Red for Women movement. In this role, he will lead statewide efforts to raise awareness and support initiatives that address cardiovascular disease in women.
“Each year, the New Hampshire Go Red for Women Luncheon brings together passionate voices to spotlight the serious risk heart disease and stroke pose to women,” Dr. Gibb said. “This mission is deeply personal to me, not just as a cardiologist, but as someone who’s seen how often women’s symptoms are misunderstood or missed. It’s critical that women receive the care they deserve, and that research continues to focus on the unique aspects of their heart health.”
Dr. Gibb and the volunteer leadership team have set a goal to raise $155,000 in support of the American Heart Association’s work. The team includes Somer Andrews, Jean Bolger, Kathy LeClair, Jennifer MacLaren, Jennifer Nye, Veronica Rosa, and Lisha Wallace, representing organizations such as Concord Hospital, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Ledyard Bank, The Dew Collective, and Hattori Hanzo Shears.
Addressing Women’s Heart Health
Nearly half of women over age 20 are living with some form of cardiovascular disease. Life stages such as pregnancy and menopause can further increase risk. Despite this, women have historically been underrepresented in research, treatment, and funding. The Go Red for Women movement continues to address these inequities while promoting prevention and early detection.
The New Hampshire Go Red for Women Luncheon will take place on February 12, 2026, at the Grappone Conference Center in Concord. The event will include educational workshops, keynote presentations, and an interactive expo featuring blood pressure screenings, Hands-Only CPR demonstrations, and additional heart health resources.
A Continuing National Movement
For more than 20 years, Go Red for Women has worked to advance awareness and research in women’s cardiovascular health. The initiative provides education and tools to help women reduce their risk while supporting equitable care through advocacy and community programs.
The national sponsor of Go Red for Women is CVS Health. Local sponsors include Catholic Medical Center, Concord Hospital, Dartmouth Health, Elliot Hospital, Lavelle Brensinger, Ledyard Bank, and The Dew Collective. Media partners are New Hampshire Business Review, New Hampshire Magazine, WMUR-TV, and WZID-FM.
“This event is about more than awareness; it’s about education, inspiration, and building a strong community dedicated to saving lives,” Dr. Gibb said.
For more information, visit Heart.org/NHGoRed or contact Rosemary.Hendrickx@Heart.org.
