Cummings to chair AHA’s 2017 Go Red For Women lunch

PROVIDENCE – Melissa Cummings will chair the 2017 Southern New England Go Red For Women Luncheon, an annual women’s event emphasizing cardiovascular health. As a cornerstone piece of the American Heart Association Go Red For Women movement, the event raises awareness and urges action to prevent or survive the greatest and fifth-greatest killers of women – heart disease and stroke, respectively. Nationally sponsored by Macy’s, this movement celebrates women’s energy, passion and power to work to eliminate heart disease and stroke while living longer, stronger and healthier lives.

Cummings, as senior vice president and chief customer officer for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island, is responsible for product development, marketing, sales and distribution, and servicing all consumer and commercial markets. She also leads BCBSRI’s retail strategy and expansion into new lines of insurance including dental, vision and voluntary coverage.

“Women helping other women make a promise to take one step for heart health is the cornerstone of our effort this year,” said Cummings in a statement. “As the mother of two young daughters, I’m committed to modeling and strengthening the message of heart health and taking simple steps to lower the risks associated with heart disease and stroke.”

“Cross Your Heart… and Start” is the theme of the 2017 luncheon; Cummings’ efforts focus on encouraging women to pledge to make a change to improve their overall heart health. Even small changes can make a big impact. Experts say that sitting is one of the biggest factors contributing to obesity and heart disease. Getting up and moving can lower the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes as much as running can, according to a 2013 study that compared approximately 33,000 runners and 15,000 walkers over six years.

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The Southern New England Go Red For Women Luncheon raises funds to support research, community programs and professional education focused on cardiovascular health. For more information, sponsorships or to purchase tickets for the Feb. 17 event, visit snegoredluncheon.heart.org or contact Tara.Comer@heart.org or (401) 228-2329.

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