Hillsborough County Commissioners have put their hearts on display — metaphorically — by declaring February 7 as Wear Red Day in a recent meeting that took place last Wednesday as detailed in a report from our colleagues at Hillsborough County. This initiative aligns with the national effort to raise awareness about women's cardiovascular health.

Heart disease is a leading cause of death for women in the U.S., with over 310,661 deaths in 2021, according to the CDC. This highlights the critical need for public awareness. Dr. Doug Ross of AdventHealth Tampa accepted a board recognition and emphasized the importance of knowing heart attack symptoms, which can differ for women, including chest discomfort, and pain in the neck, jaw, or throat.

"I think that we really have to all be aware of these sort of different symptoms...that could be a heart attack in women," Ross told Hillsborough County press release. Ross conveyed, appreciating the board's moves to elevate heart health to the forefront of the local conversation. 

The gathering wasn’t just about wearing red; county officials also highlighted the winners of the 2024 Minority & Small Business Enterprises Awards. This award celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit within minority communities, aiming to honor successes and inspire new ventures across the county.