"Heart disease is the number one killer of women in America, and Montanans can be heart-healthier," said Pomnichowski.

 

Pomnichowski is a former firefighter/EMT on the Bridger Canyon Volunteer Fire Department. "As a medical care provider, I know how sudden and devastating a heart attack or stroke can be."

 

    "Montanans are strong people, and often, we don't recognize or act on symptoms that we should. We tough it out through pain, illness, or injury. The Go Red for Women event will raise awareness of cardiovascular disease and encourage Montana women to reduce their risk of heart disease."

 

    "Montanans can do some basic things to improve their heart health," Pomnichowski says. "Eat healthy, and get out and exercise. Know your cholesterol and triglyceride numbers, and work to keep them in healthy ranges. Our families depend on us. As Montana women work to keep their families happy and healthy, they need to do the same for themselves."

 

    Pomnichowski will be joined by Joan Miles, Director of the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, former First Lady Betty Babcock, a heart disease survivor, Anna Whiting-Sorrell, Governor Schweitzer's Policy Advisor on Families, and Mike McNamara, President of the Montana Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation.

 

    The event takes place from 7:30-9 a.m. in the Old Supreme Court Chambers on the third floor of the Capitol Building in Helena.