Mayor Jim Watson has proclaimed (PDF) February is Heart month in the capital, an opportunity to raise essential funds for the University of Ottawa Heart Institute (UOHI), and a reminder to consider the importance of heart health.
Here’s how residents can participate in Heart Month this February:
- Join the conversation: Follow the UOHI and UOHI Foundation on social media and use the hashtag #GiveWithHeart to participate in the national conversation about heart health.
- Hunt for Hearts: The UOHI Foundation’s second annual scavenger hunt is back! Compete with others in the community for great prizing. Powered by Escape Manor, this event runs Family Day weekend, February 19 through 21.
- Light the Town Red: For the month of February, local businesses are lighting their storefronts red for heart health. Hang a red light in your window at home and share a picture on social media using the hashtag #LightTheTownRed to participate and be eligible for prizing.
- The BIG HEART 2K Challenge: The Wellington West BIA is pleased to support the UOHI with the BIG HEART 2K Challenge presented by Run Ottawa from February 14 to 28. Run or walk the length of Wellington West every day for 14 days and visit participating merchants to earn Stubbe chocolates and other prizes.
- Learn about heart health: To learn about heart health and discover a wealth of specialized cardiac clinics and programs related to heart conditions, procedures, and risk factors, or to register for a heart health webinar or workshop, visit www.ottawaheart.ca.
Give With Heart
Support the UOHI by texting a heart emoji to 456-78 to donate $5.00 instantly. Funds raised ensure patients of the UOHI and their families continue to receive world-class care in Ottawa. It’s also possible to Give With Heart online. The UOHI Foundation’s corporate match champions will double donations received all month long.
To learn more about February is Heart Month, visit www.februaryisheartmonth.ca.
Media opportunities
To coordinate an interview with a Heart Month spokesperson or an expert from the UOHI, please coordinate with the liaison named below.
Media contact:
Leigh B. Morris
Communications Officer
University of Ottawa Heart Institute
613-316-6409 (cell)
lmorris@ottawaheart.ca