Long-Time Leader Steps Up

Photo credit: Nell Hoving

JoAnn Magnatta has a history of stepping up when it comes to the American Heart Association (AHA). A long-time volunteer leader, Magnatta didn’t hesitate when asked to chair the AHA’s 2018 Go Red For Women campaign.

“Over the years, I’ve met many wonderful women and men who have been affected by heart disease,” says Magnatta, Senior Vice President of Facilities Design and Construction/Real Estate at Main Line Health. “I truly believe I should do as much as I can to fight this disease, and I was honored when I was asked to lead this year’s effort.”

The goal for the 2018 Go Red For Women campaign is $1.7 million—money that will help fund local research and raise awareness of heart disease among women. The campaign culminates at the annual Go Red Luncheon in May. While the luncheon represents the finish line for this year’s campaign, the fight against heart disease will go on for Magnatta.

“My mother and her six siblings had significant heart-related issues, as did my mother-in-law, so this effort is personal for me,” she says. “I have a daughter and I know that either of us could be stricken with this disease. This is a lifelong commitment for me.”

For more information on ways you can Go Red this year, visit phillymag.com/go-red-2018.