Two Colorado changemakers triumph in competition to end cardiovascular disease

DENVER, April. 20, 2026 — Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the No. 1 killer in the United States, but according to the American Heart Association, approximately 80% of heart attacks and strokes are preventable. Two area individuals have successfully channeled their energy and passion to build a healthier Colorado and raise critical dollars to help fund the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association, earning them recognition from the organization. Sandy Goldstein is the 2026 Colorado Woman of Impact winner. Teen of Impact winner Katie J. has been named this year’s 2026 Colorado Teen of Impact winner. The Heart Association, devoted to changing the future to a world of healthier lives for all, is celebrating changemakers in over 160 communities across the nation. These leaders used their campaigns to make the greatest impact in their communities by raising awareness for heart health and funds for lifesaving research, advocacy and education. The Woman of Impact and Teen of Impact campaigns launched on National Wear Red Day® , Friday, Feb. 6. Collectively, this year’s Colorado’s nominees raised $165,343 to support the vital work of the American Heart Association. More than 9 nominees competed in the Heart Association’s Woman of Impact™ and Teen of Impact™ campaigns in Colorado. Each nominee supported the Heart Association in its fight against the nation’s No. 1 health threat, CVD. The Woman of Impact campaign, part of the Heart Association’s Go Red for Women® movement, specifically focuses on improving women’s health, while Teen of Impact focuses on empowering the next generation to change the trajectory of heart health for their generation. Sandy and Katie are two of more than 160 other community-level Women and Teen of Impact winners from across the country now eligible for national recognition. The national winners from each campaign will be named on May 20, 2026. Local Woman of Impact nominees included: Anna Berry Sandy Goldstein Lacey Golonka Nicole Simmons Local Teen of Impact nominees included: Amari Ari Gabi Katie Maggie To learn more about the Heart Association in Colorado, visit https://www.heart.org/en/affiliates/colorado . ### About the American Heart Association The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org , Facebook , X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. About Go Red for Women® The American Heart Association’s signature initiative, Go Red for Women®, is a comprehensive platform designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally. While the majority of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women. For more than two decades, Go Red for Women has encouraged awareness. The movement harnesses the energy, passion and power of women to band together and collectively wipe out heart disease. It challenges them to know their risk for heart disease and take action to reduce their personal risk. It also gives them tools they need to lead a heart-healthy life. The Go Red for Women movement is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, with additional support from national cause supporters. For more information, please visit GoRedforWomen.org or call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721). For Media Inquiries: Lyndsey Albright, Lyndsey.albright@heart.org For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721) heart.org and stroke.org