On The Circuit: Go Red for Women 2025

Every year, tens of thousands of women rally nationwide for the Go Red for Women (GRFW) Luncheons, united in the fight against heart disease and stroke. Nashville and Middle Tennessee’s event is among the largest, drawing survivors, donors, and volunteers together under a red balloon archway of hope and heart.

The 2025 luncheon at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center welcomed a record-breaking 450+ attendees, who mingled over signature pomegranate mocktails and a heart-healthy lunch. Chairperson Elizabeth Goodwin kicked things off, and WSMV 4’s vivacious Emmy winner Lauren Lowery emceed the day’s powerful program.

The day's highlight was The Women of Impact nominees—community champions raising funds in a nine-week blind competition—sharing moving stories of survival. One standout, Valery Parham, raised over $45,000 and took home a trophy nearly her size! Lowery, a past winner herself, later led the lively Open Your Heart Appeal Auction, where the crowd donned red glasses, tinsel, and tooted party horns in celebration. The goal was 100% participation, and it sure looked like they nailed it.

On a more serious note, Executive Director Annie Thornhill hosted a panel with Dr. Nishtha Sareen, Olympic gold medalist Shawn Johnson East, and Parham, shedding light on the fact that nearly 45% of women live with cardiovascular disease, most without knowing it’s their #1 threat.

New this year: a balcony charcuterie lunch option and a generous matching fund group for donations under $25,000. Both helped fuel the record-setting $30,000 raised during the auction.

Since 2004, GRFW has been a driving force for awareness, research, and policy change. And with this year's success, their momentum shows no signs of slowing.