Lee McGrath, Executive Vice President of Health Care Services at Premera Blue Cross, will serve as the executive volunteer chair of the 2024-2025 Puget Sound Go Red for Women® movement, a comprehensive platform designed more than two decades ago to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally. As the American Heart Association enters its second century, McGrath will play a critical role by leading the Puget Sound Go Red for Women Experience, an annual gathering of survivors, donors and volunteers the celebrates milestones in the fight against cardiovascular disease and inspires supporters to take action.
According to the American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in women, claiming more lives than all cancers combined. Nearly 45% of women over age 20 are living with some form of CVD. Heart disease and stroke collectively continue to be Puget Sound women’s greatest health threat.
As a parent of a child with a heart defect, McGrath knows how devastating a diagnosis of a heart condition can be. She said that experience made her feel very alone as a parent and connection is at the heart of her leadership for the Go Red campaign.
“The strength of community among women is nothing short of profound,” McGrath said. “I’m deeply committed to fostering spaces where women can come together, support one another and find solace on their journey to better heart and brain health. No parent should ever feel alone; by standing together, we can make sure every woman has access to the empathy, connection and resources of the American Heart Association.”
The 2025 Go Red for Women Experience will be held on Thursday, March 6 at the King Street Ballroom & Perch within the Embassy Suites Hotel in Seattle. Under McGrath’s leadership, the event hopes to raise $1.5 million to advance scientific research and community programs focused on women, as well as highlight real-life stories of women from the community living with heart disease and stroke.
Go Red for Women is a global movement with impact across the United States and in more than 50 countries around the world. Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health and locally by Cambia Health Foundation, MultiCare Health System, Optum Care Washington and Premera Blue Cross. For more information, visit www.heart.org/PugetSoundGoRed.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 – our Centennial year – we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Instagram, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
About Go Red for Women®
The American Heart Association’s signature initiative, Go Red for Women®, is a comprehensive platform designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally. While the majority of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women. For more than two decades, Go Red for Women has encouraged awareness. The movement harnesses the energy, passion and power of women to band together and collectively wipe out heart disease. It challenges them to know their risk for heart disease and take action to reduce their personal risk. It also gives them tools they need to lead a heart healthy life. The Go Red for Women movement is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, with additional support from national cause supporters. For more information, please visit GoRedforWomen.org or call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721). To connect with the American Heart Association in Washington, visit heart.org/Washington, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram or X.