Iowa Heart at the Capitol: Turning Passion into Policy for Healthier Communities
April 1, 2026
On February 24th, 2026, the American Heart Association united its passionate Heart Powered advocates at the Iowa Capitol in Des Moines for New Mexico Heart at the Capitol, a day dedicated to raising voices for healthier lives and stronger communities. 38 advocates, along with Project Adam, the American College of Cardiology, Iowa Heart Foundation, came together to champion policies that prevent disease, improve health, and save lives.
Throughout the day, advocates held 35 meetings with state leaders, including Lt Gov Chris Cournoyer; Chief Whip Senator Mike Klimesh; Senate President Amy Sinclair; Senator Tim Kraayenbrink, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee; Senator Janet Petersen, Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Committee; and Representative Dan Gelbach, House Education Budget Chair. During these meetings, advocates shared why heart health matters and how smart policies can make a real difference. Conversations centered on Acute Cardiac Events in Schools and implementation funding for these policies, sparking meaningful dialogue about the role legislation plays in creating environments where everyone has the opportunity to live longer, healthier lives.
The impact didn’t stop at the meetings. Thanks to these efforts, during the meeting with the legislators, there was great support for cardiac emergency response plans, showing the incredible power of people coming together to advocate for change.
One of the most inspiring moments of the day was when Nate Bentley spoke to the media and legislators about his survivor story, Marianne Ricart spoke about saving her child, and Megan Wentzel spoke about saving her husband by performing CPR. (Optional- add details of story/ stories). Their story reminded us that behind every policy is a person, and that advocacy is about turning personal experiences into progress for all.
Iowa Heart at the Capitol proved what’s possible when we unite to change the future of health: policies that protect hearts, prevent disease, and build healthier communities for generations to come.
Want to learn more? Check out media coverage from the event and help us spread the word by liking and sharing our Facebook post.