February 12, 2014
St. John’s became the first university in the country to partner with the American Heart Association for its national “Wear Red Day.” On Friday, February 7, the University community was encouraged to wear red to help raise awareness for heart disease, which takes more lives than any other disease.
Ruth DeRosa, Associate Director of Wellness Education--who was diagnosed with heart disease at age 55-- and students from St. John University’s Physician’s Assistant Program conducted blood pressure checks, fat analysis, and provided tips at an information session in the D’Angelo Center.
There’s a perception that heart disease is something that your mother or grandmother may suffer from,” said Ms. DeRosa. “But, that isn’t just the case. It’s important for students to realize that your heart is the only one you get and if you have family history – regardless of your age – you are at risk. If students aren’t thinking about heart health, they need to start now.”
For more information about National Wear Red Day, visit the American Heart Association.