As heart disease continues to claim lives across Canada at an alarming rate, Waterloo Region is preparing to fight back with a wave of red. The annual RedDAY fundraiser, set for June 6, aims to raise critical awareness and funds for heart health initiatives that could save countless lives in our communities.
“Every seven minutes, someone in Canada dies from heart disease or stroke,” explains Dr. Jennifer Morrison, cardiologist at Grand River Hospital. “What makes these statistics particularly devastating is that many of these deaths are preventable with proper education and early intervention.”
The initiative, organized by the St. Mary’s General Hospital Foundation, encourages residents and businesses throughout the region to wear red clothing, decorate their spaces with red items, and donate to support life-saving cardiac care. Last year’s campaign raised over $275,000, funding essential equipment and community outreach programs.
Local businesses are already showing strong support. Waterloo-based tech company Faire has pledged to match employee donations up to $10,000, while several downtown restaurants will donate a percentage of June 6 sales to the cause.
“Heart disease doesn’t discriminate – it affects people of all ages and backgrounds,” says Maria Thompson, executive director of the St. Mary’s General Hospital Foundation. “The funds raised through RedDAY directly support our Regional Cardiac Care Centre, which serves patients from across Southwestern Ontario.”
The hospital’s cardiac program has become increasingly vital as heart disease rates continue to rise. In 2023 alone, St. Mary’s performed over 3,500 cardiac procedures, representing a 15% increase from the previous year.
Participation options extend beyond simple donations. The foundation has organized a community walk at Waterloo Park starting at 5:30 p.m. on RedDAY, and several local fitness centers will host special “heart-healthy” classes with proceeds benefiting the campaign.
Schools throughout the region are also joining the effort, with educational programs teaching students about heart health and prevention strategies. At Waterloo Collegiate Institute, students have organized a “Red Run” event and created informational displays about cardiovascular health.
“Teaching young people about heart health now could literally add years to their lives,” notes public health nurse Rebecca Chen. “Simple lifestyle changes like regular physical activity, healthy eating, and stress management can dramatically reduce risk factors.”
For those unable to participate in person, the foundation has created digital options, including a social media campaign encouraging people to share heart health stories with the hashtag #WaterlooRedDAY2024.
As heart disease continues to affect nearly every family in some way, the RedDAY initiative represents a community-wide effort to change the narrative. With cardiovascular disease remaining the second leading cause of death in Canada, behind only cancer, these local efforts contribute to a nationwide push for better heart health.
To participate in RedDAY or make a donation, residents can visit the St. Mary’s General Hospital Foundation website or call their donation line at 519-749-6797.
As our community prepares to go red for heart health, perhaps the most important question remains: What personal steps will each of us take beyond June 6 to protect not just our own hearts, but the hearts of those we love?
