WS Chronicle

This weekend Red H.E.A.R.R.T. (Help Educate & Reduce Risk Today) will celebrate 15 years of service during its annual Red Bottom Shoes and Bow Tie Wellness and Luncheon Affair. The event aims to educate women and men of color about heart health and methods for prevention.  

After losing her mother to heart disease, Winston-Salem native Cheryl Lindsay said she wanted to inspire and save lives through education, resources and the demonstration of healthy living techniques that improve an individual’s quality of life. Determined to make a difference, Red H.E.A.R.R.T. was born. “Together we are going to make a difference,” said Lindsay when discussing the impact of Red H.E.A.R.R.T.  

While a world free from heart disease may not come to fruition within our lifetime, reports have shown that heart disease is 80% preventable. Throughout the year the organization holds events designed to educate the community on heart health. And the Red Bottom Shoes and Bow Tie Wellness and Luncheon Affair is one of the biggest events they host.  

Every year hundreds of people gather at the Benton Convention Center for the event and this year will be no different. Speakers for the women’s Red Bottom Shoes Affair will be Pastor Tembila Covington, Dr. Jaleema Speaks, Edna Brooks, Minister Latonia Oakley, Alexia Mitchell, Rev. Cheryl Moore, Apostle Gloria Samuels, Pastor Sherise Lindsay, and Dr. Linda McRae.  

For the men, speakers and participants in the “Man Talk” panel will be Rev. Daniel Webb, Daryl Shaw, Bishop Sir Walter Mack Jr., Bishop George Brooks, James Dubose Jr., Dr. John P. Card, Dr. Keith Vereen, Richard Daniels, Bishop Todd Fulton, Rev. Darryl Napper. 

In addition to powerful speakers, the event is also a celebration. Traditionally the event includes a fashion show and red carpet walk for those who have overcome heart disease, and an awards ceremony. There will also be vendors available to give health assessments, sell merchandise, and pamper attendees with massages and makeovers.  

“We’re going to have an amazing time but, most importantly, we’re all going to be educated, empowered and enriched with information,” Lindsay said.  

The 2025 Red Bottom Shoes and Bow Tie Wellness and Luncheon Affair will be held this Saturday, March 29, at the Benton Convention Center. For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.redheart.com.