In a powerful convergence of American Heart Month and Black History Month, Houston Style Magazine urges our readers to recognize and address the urgent need for health equity, particularly within Black communities. The American Heart Association, at the forefront of this vital mission for a century, acknowledges changemakers dedicated to improving the health outcomes of Black Americans.

Alarming Disparities and a Call to Action

Black Americans face the highest incidence of cardiac arrest outside of the hospital, with significantly lower survival rates. Recent studies reveal distressingly low rates of both bystander CPR and AED use in Black neighborhoods, highlighting a critical need for intervention and awareness.

Honoring Champions of Change

In a landmark ceremony hosted by CBS News National Correspondent Michelle Miller in New York City on Feb. 1, the American Heart Association recognized three extraordinary individuals for their transformative work in promoting health equity:

1. Damar Hamlin - Voice of the Mission Award

Buffalo Bills safety and cardiac arrest survivor, Damar Hamlin, received the prestigious Voice of the Mission Award for his historic efforts in raising awareness about CPR education. As the national ambassador for the American Heart Nation of Lifesavers™ initiative, Hamlin is dedicated to ensuring widespread access to CPR training and AEDs in communities, schools, workplaces, and places of worship.

1. Andrew Suggs - Impact with Heart Award

CEO & Founder of Live Chair Health in Baltimore, Andrew Suggs, received the Impact with Heart Award for his innovative approach to improving health outcomes. Live Chair Health equips barbers with tools to measure blood pressure, check BMI, and conduct health risk assessments, creating a unique platform to engage Black men in monitoring their vital signs.

1. Ashley Williams - Impact with Heart Award

Emotional wellness advocate Ashley Williams, founder of Clymb in Baltimore, was also honored with the Impact with Heart Award. Clymb offers web-based emotional health software for school-age children, aiming to enhance emotional intelligence and foster healthy coping strategies.

A Commitment to Health Equity

Marsha Jones, American Heart Association volunteer board chair, emphasized the organization's commitment to ending health inequities. As the American Heart Association celebrates 100 years of service, they continue to support local initiatives through the Social Impact Funds, which address social and economic barriers to health equity.

Houston Style Magazine stands in solidarity with the American Heart Association and these remarkable changemakers, pledging our support to ensure equitable health for everyone. Together, let us confront nonmedical, social, and economic barriers to health, making strides towards longer, healthier lives for all as we enter our second century.

For further information and updates, visit the American Heart Association website or contact Houston Style Magazine at www.houstonstylemagazine.com.