Women lead region promoting heart-healthy living
Date: 2/15/2011
Feb. 16, 2011By Katelyn Gendron
Assistant Editor
WEST SPRINGFIELD — Joanne Berwald doesn't think she's a hero, rather, this West Springfield native believes she's an ordinary American Heart Association volunteer who strives to lead a heart-healthy lifestyle.
Those at the American Heart Association of Connecticut and Western Massachusetts would disagree, calling Berwald and 10 others in the region, extraordinary women who've committed themselves to raising awareness about the dangers of heart disease. Their dedication has earned them the title of the 2011 Go Red Leading Ladies of Connecticut and Western Massachusetts.
"The American Heart Association was looking for women who are role models and an inspiration to others in the home, at work or in their community to be part of this campaign," Mary Ann Burns, director of communications, said. "Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of women, yet most women are not even aware of this mostly preventable disease. By working with women in our own community on this poster campaign, we can share the message of good heart health and fight heart disease in women right here in Western Massachusetts."
Janine Fondon of East Longmeadow, Joan Cinner of Easthampton, Karen Fortin of Holyoke, Michelle Patrick of Wilbraham, Christine Phillips of South Hadley, Melissa Picknelly of Springfield and Kerri Besancon, Carol Moore-Cutting, Annamarie Golden and Susan Lawson of Longmeadow, join Berwald as this year's Leading Ladies.
"They're all amazing women, whether it's someone who is a teacher, business owner or executive in a company, they're pretty much unsung heroes," Berwald said.
She called being named a leading lady, a "surprise and honor." Berwald said she never sought recognition for her volunteerism with the American Heart Association; rather, she was simply striving to help raise awareness of heart-healthy lifestyles.
"You hear so much about other diseases, whether it's cancer or stroke, but women don't know that heart disease is the number one killer," she said. "I really try to live a healthy lifestyle. One has to take care of the body."
Berwald, who used to compete in triathlons, now spends 45 to 60 minutes working out in the early hours of each day. She said she wanted to set a good example for her children who are still involved in athletics and healthy lifestyles as young adults.
When asked what she hopes to accomplish as one of this year's Leading Ladies, Berwald replied, "Hopefully whoever is reading this article will do more research on how to be heart-healthy."
