One of the best things about the International Pageant system is their dedication to the community and helping their queen's champion their own personal platforms. The pageant has their own platform with the American Heart Association's "Go Red for Women" campaign. Heart disease is the #1 killer of Americans, women included. The "Go Red" initiative is targeted at women and educating them about prevention of heart disease. Simple steps you can take in your life include eating lean foods, exercising daily, and limiting your amount of alcoholic intake, and of course no smoking! The fun thing about the luncheon was that AHA gave seminars on how to live healthy, one of them was with Chef Chamberlain who has two restaurants locally. He taught us how to cook lean beef so that it tastes good, but without all the extra oils and fats. I even got my BMI tested at one of the booths that were giving out free screenings. Luckily I am at a healthy BMI of 20 and an athletic body fat. It is pretty intimidating getting your body fat measured, but it is essential in preventing heart disease. One of the most touching stories that I heard during the event was from a woman who at 30 years old, was diagnosed with heart disease. She was an active cheerleader and athlete, didn't even smoke or drink, and had just had a baby. One day in January 2005 her heart collapsed and she had to have a heart transplant. She got a second chance, but many other women do not. Her daughter now 7 came to the stage and gave her flowers. Everyone in the audience, myself included, was trying to fight back tears. Heart disease can be prevented, you need to have annual check ups and keep your body healthy through exercise, making smart eating choices, limiting alcohol intake, and no smoking! Please educate those that you care about, because it can be prevented and not have to take another life too soon!
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