Beyond the Valentines: Why We Take Heart Month Personally...
February is synonymous with red hearts. You see them on greeting cards, chocolate boxes, and window displays throughout Grand Haven, Spring Lake, and Ferrysburg. But while we love the spirit of Valentine’s Day, there is a much more critical reason we see red this month: February is American Heart Month.
Because of our goal to become a designated Heart Safe Community, this month holds special significance for us. It is our annual opportunity to refocus our attention on the most important muscle in the body and remind our neighbors that heart health is a community effort.
Prevention is the First Step Our Heart Safe designation means we are exceptionally prepared to respond to cardiac emergencies—with CPR training, AEDs, and rapid response protocols. However, the best outcome is the emergency that never happens.
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States. This month, we encourage you to focus on the preventative side of the equation:
- Know Your Numbers: When was the last time you checked your blood pressure or cholesterol?
- Move Your Body: Even a daily 20-minute walk along the waterfront or through our local parks can significantly improve cardiovascular health.
- Stress Less: Chronic stress can take a toll on your heart. Take time to disconnect and breathe.
Turning Awareness into Action
Awareness is great, but action saves lives. We are asking every resident to do one thing this February to contribute to our Heart Safe mission:
- Download the App: If you haven’t downloaded PulsePoint, do it today.
- Check on a Loved One: Ask your parents, partners, or friends if they are up to date on their heart screenings.
A Community Commitment
Our commitment to the cardiac health of our citizens and visitors doesn’t end when February is over. By combining healthy lifestyle choices with the emergency preparedness of the Heart Safe initiative, we are building a stronger, safer, and healthier community for everyone.
Let’s make this February about more than just chocolate. Let’s make it about keeping our hearts beating strong.
