Legislator Mazi Melesa Pilip joined with County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Comptroller Elaine Phillips, Legislators John Giuffre and Tom McKevitt, Actress and heart patient Susan Lucci and renowned cardiologist Dr. Richard Schlofmitz to discuss the important of heart health and getting checkups, especially since February is American Heart Month. They also announced that the dome of the Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building will be lit up red tonight for heart health.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death among both men and women in the United States. On average, heart disease claims more than 650,000 people each year. February is also home to National Wear Red Day, that opts to highlight the women’s heart health. Susan Lucci, who in 2018 underwent surgery for two blocked arteries and another procedure in 2021 is the National Ambassador for the Go Red for Women’s Movement with the American Heart Association. Dr Shlofmitz, the chair of Cardiology at St Francis Hospital, The Heart Center, is her doctor.
“As National Wear Red Day highlights, heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in America,” Legislator Pilip said. “Please make an effort to get your heart checked and see a cardiologist. Early detection can save lives.”
Shown in photo above, left to right: County Executive Bruce Blakeman; Legislator Mazi Melesa Pilip; Emmy-Award winning actress Susan Lucci; Dr. Richard Schlofmitz, Chair of Cardiology at St Francis Hospital, The Heart Center.