Heart disease is the number one killer of women—yet many still don’t recognize the warning signs.
TWENTY-three years ago, Candice Monroe, aged 38, was granted a new lease on life thanks to a heart transplant. This transformative experience not only afforded her more time but also a newfound mission to raise awareness about women’s heart health.
Each year, Candice commemorates the anniversary of her transplant with deep appreciation. She starts her day acknowledging that her heart continues to beat as a result of the kindness of a donor and their family. She has developed a special bond with her donor’s father.
This year’s significant milestone arrived with additional positive news. During a recent heart catheterization examination, which assessed her heart function, the results showed optimal conditions. Termed as “the chef’s kiss” by her medical team, this moment brought Candice a sense of relief and joy, considering her firsthand understanding of the capricious nature of heart disease.
But Candice’s journey is about more than just her own health. It’s about raising awareness for the millions of women who don’t realize they’re at risk.
Heart disease is the number one killer of women — yet many still don’t recognize the warning signs. Unlike men, whose heart disease symptoms often include classic chest pain, women experience more subtle signs like fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea, or even pain in the back or jaw. These differences can lead to missed diagnoses and delayed treatment, putting more women at risk, the AHA says.
Research shows that nearly half of women over the age of 20 have some form of cardiovascular disease. The risks are even higher for those who have experienced pregnancy complications like preeclampsia, which can be an early indicator of future heart problems.
That’s why Candice has dedicated herself to starting conversations that save lives. And those conversations are making an impact.
Candice’s advocacy caught the attention of local clothing designer Emily Roggenburk, who designed a special Go Red for Women sweatshirt last year to help spread awareness. The campaign was such a success that she’s teaming up with the American Heart Association again this year — continuing to turn fashion into a powerful statement for women’s heart health.
But for Candice, this mission is also deeply personal. She lost both her father and her sister to heart disease. Their stories fuel her passion, and though sharing her own journey isn’t always easy, she does it with one goal in mind: to help others recognize the signs before it’s too late.
“Sometimes I hesitate to share,” she admits. “But if my story can impact someone else’s life, it’s worth it. I know I’m making them proud.”
Candice is just one voice in a growing movement. Go Red for Women, an initiative by the American Heart Association, is working to educate, empower, and unite women in the fight against heart disease. It’s not just about wearing red — it’s about starting conversations, making lifestyle changes, and ensuring that more women understand their risks.
