Go Red at the West Virginia Capitol 2025: Advocates uniting to change the future of health

On March 13, 2025, the American Heart Association (AHA) participated in the Go Red at the West Virginia Capitol event at the Capitol Building in Charleston, West Virginia. The event brought together one hundred and twenty passionate advocates, legislators, and key healthcare organizations, including the Marshall University Department of Cardiology Services, WV Junior College Medical Assistant Program, Cabin Creek Health Systems, and members of the WV AHA Development, Community Impact, and Communications Teams. Also in attendance were the WV AHA Board President and members of the WV AHA State Advocacy Committee.

The primary goal of the event was to advocate for funding to support access to care. Advocates engaged in five meetings with legislators and staff, receiving positive responses. Many legislators expressed their support and committed to further discussions on healthcare initiatives.

A key highlight of the day was the blood pressure screenings, attended by more than thirty legislators, as well as staff, advocates, and visitors. Many legislators appreciated the opportunity to monitor their blood pressure during the session and enjoyed the friendly competition of comparing results with their colleagues.

Youth advocates played an essential role in the event. Working alongside the Market and Communications Director, they created social media reels and posts to amplify the message. One of the most impactful moments was the participation of Gryffin Cavender, a 10-year-old cardiac arrest survivor, who attended with his family. Gryffin met with several legislators to discuss the importance of expanding Cardiac Emergency Response Plans (CERPs) to cover all West Virginia schools.

The event yielded promising immediate outcomes. The priority bill—Expanding Cardiac Emergency Response Plans—gained traction in the Senate, with Senator Amy Grady pledging her support to advance it through the Finance Committee, where she successfully moved it forward. Additionally, House Education Committee members committed to opposing a proposed tobacco-in-schools PUP bill. Further support was also secured from additional members of the Senate and House leadership.

The day was highlighted by powerful testimonies and dedicated advocacy. During the House citation presentation, Delegate Rohrbach, Deputy Speaker for the WV House of Delegates, underscored the significance of prioritizing heart health initiatives across West Virginia. Senator Amy Grady, Senate Education Chair and a steadfast AHA advocate, echoed this sentiment in a floor speech, citing AHA’s impactful data and commending its ongoing efforts. Her remarks coincided with the Senate’s passage of a resolution officially recognizing Go Red Day in West Virginia.

Overall, the Go Red at the West Virgina Capitol 2025 was a resounding success. It demonstrated the power of advocates uniting to change the future of health by speaking out and speaking up to advance policies that are improving lives and creating healthier communities.