January 30, 2024, OTTAWA — February is Heart Month in the capital, an opportunity for us all to consider the importance of heart and vascular health, and to raise essential funds for the University of Ottawa Heart Institute (UOHI).
“Every donation, no matter its size, helps fuel our mission to provide exceptional care to our patients, conduct pioneering research that shapes clinical practice, and prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals for success,” said Dr. Rob Beanlands, the UOHI’s incoming president and CEO, and Heart Month ambassador for 2024.
This year, there are more than one hundred community initiatives planned throughout the city, and the UOHI Foundation’s corporate match champions will once again be matching donations received.
There are many ways to support the life-saving work of the University of Ottawa Heart Institute during Heart Month.
All February long
- Make a donation: Funds raised support research, education, patient programs and innovative care for patients of the Heart Institute, and their families. It’s possible to make a donation online.
- Light the Capital Red: This February, the Light the Capital Red initiative returns. Windows, homes and businesses across Ottawa will shine red to highlight the importance of the Heart Institute’s work. Here’s how to participate.
- The Paper Hearts campaign: You may see red paper hearts adorned on walls inside your favourite local business. Over thirty locations across the city will be selling paper hearts. For a complete list, please visit februaryisheartmonth.ca.
Events and dates
- Feb. 13 | Wear Red Canada: The Canadian Women’s Heart Health Centre and its national alliance will celebrate Wear Red Canada on February 13. Events held online and across the country will raise awareness about women's heart and vascular health. Wear red on February 13 and take part in the Wear Red Movement Challenge. Visit wearredcanada.ca to learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved.
- Feb. 22 | Heart Valve Disease Awareness Day: The Centre for Valvular Heart Disease (CVHD) at the UOHI is hosting a one-day event open to the public, primary care providers, and allied healthcare professionals. The event will feature presentations from exceptional speakers and patient partners about heart valve disease and what we can do to combat this next epidemic. The CVHD Mobile Screening Program will offer free heart valve screening and cardiovascular risk factor checks all day long. Learn more.
- Feb. 29 | Sharing is Caring: Patients, their families and caregivers, community partners, and members of the media are invited to learn about cardiac rehabilitation research outputs related to physical activity, mental health, personal relationships, and smoking cessation in a fun and interactive format. Features of the event include engaging speaker presentations, a moderated Q+A, educational booths, and a Nordic walking demonstration. This hybrid event will take place online and in-person at the Heart Institute. Learn more.
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. To learn about February is Heart Month, visit februaryisheartmonth.ca.
Media opportunities
To coordinate an interview with a Heart Month spokesperson or an expert from the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, please contact the liaison named below.
Media contact
Leigh B. Morris
Communications Officer
University of Ottawa Heart Institute
613-316-6409 (cell)
lmorris@ottawaheart.ca