HeartPlace

You may be more at risk for DVT if you experience: • Prolonged Inactivity  • Certain Medical Conditions & Medical History- Individuals with a history of DVT, blood clotting disorders, cancer, or heart disease are at higher risk. • Surgery & Injury • Hormonal Factors • Obesity & Lifestyle Factors  • Age & Genetics – While DVT can affect anyone, individuals over 60 and those with a family history of clotting disorders are more susceptible. #dvtawareness #healthyveins

Common DVT symptoms include: • Swelling in one leg, often accompanied by pain or tenderness • Red or discolored skin over the affected area • Warmth in the swollen or painful region • Leg pain or cramping, which may worsen when standing or walking #dvtawareness #healthyveins

Dr. Donna M. Mendes, a distinguished medical professor and pioneering vascular surgeon, was encouraged by her parents and mentors to  pursue medicine at Hofstra University, earning her B.A. in biology in 1973 before attending Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons. Specializing in peripheral vascular surgery, Dr. Mendes made history as the first African American woman certified in vascular surgery by the American Board of Surgery. Her groundbreaking research explores racial disparities in vascular disease, particularly the impact of peripheral arterial disease on African American patients. Dr. Mendes became an assistant clinical professor at Columbia in 1990, later leading St. Luke’s Division of Vascular Surgery. By 1999, she had established herself as a senior attending surgeon at St. Luke’s and Lenox Hill Hospital.  Throughout her career, she has combined surgical excellence with a deep commitment to advancing health equity. #blackhistorymonth #hearthealth #africanamericanhistory #cardiology #vascular

Eddie Bernice Johnson has dedicated her life to breaking barriers and paving the way for others. She began her journey as a trailblazer in healthcare, becoming the first African American woman to serve as chief psychiatric nurse at the VA Hospital in Dallas. Following the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which sought to dismantle discriminatory voting practices, Johnson made history once again as the first Black woman elected to public office in Dallas, winning a seat in the Texas House. Her leadership and commitment to public service led to her appointment by President Jimmy Carter as the first Black woman to serve as regional director for the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare.  In 1992, Johnson continued her legacy of firsts by becoming the first registered nurse elected to Congress, where she represented Texas' 30th District with dedication and integrity. Her influence extended even further when she became both the first African American and the first woman to serve as the ranking member of the Science, Space, and Technology Committee.   Throughout her career, Eddie Bernice Johnson has exemplified resilience, intelligence, and compassion, leaving an indelible mark on history and opening doors for future generations.  #blackhistorymonth #hearthealth #africanamericanhistory #nursing

From the time she was just eight years old, Dr. Josephine Isabel-Jones knew she was destined to become a pediatrician, an extraordinary dream for a young Black girl growing up in the South in the 1940s. Defying the barriers of her time, she became one of only four women to graduate from Meharry Medical College and went on to make history as the first African American resident at the University of Tennessee.  Her journey continued as she became the first African American woman in the United States to earn board certification in pediatric cardiology.  Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Isabel-Jones has remained a passionate advocate for civil rights and has dedicated herself to medical mission work, ensuring that underserved communities receive the care they deserve. #blackhistorymonth #hearthealth #africanamericanhistory #cardiology

Goldie D. Brangman was a trailblazing certified registered nurse anesthetist whose dedication to her profession left a lasting impact on the field of anesthesia and healthcare as a whole. As the first Black president of the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology, she paved the way for greater representation and inclusion in nursing.   Brangman’s skills and commitment to patient care were exemplified in 1958 when she was part of the team at Harlem Hospital that treated Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. following an assassination attempt—an event that underscored both her expertise and the critical role of nurse anesthetists in lifesaving care.  Her legacy continues through the Goldie Brangman Scholarship, awarded by the New York State Association of Nurse Anesthetists to support students in accredited nurse anesthesia programs. Beyond her professional contributions, she also devoted time to volunteering with the American Red Cross. Brangman lived a life of service, leadership, and mentorship, passing away in 2020 at the age of 102, leaving behind an enduring legacy of excellence and compassion.  #blackhistorymonth #hearthealth #africanamericanhistory #nursing

At a time when systematic barriers sought to limit his opportunities, Dr. John C. Norman’s vision, brilliance, and perseverance helped shape the future of cardiovascular medicine. Dr. Norman’s pioneering work on the first left ventricular assist device as a type of bridge to transplantation that won him internation acclaim. Along with his colleagues, Dr. Norman helped establish The Texas Heart Institute’s Cullen Cardiovascular Research Laboratories. Graduating from Howard University at just 16, followed by his M.D. from Harvard Medical School, Dr. Norman continued his esteemed career as a faculty member in the Department of Surgery at Harvard University in his early 30s. Dr. Norman once reflected, “I had to be a pathfinder. And once you train yourself to run, you keep running.” His words embody the resilience and determination that defined his extraordinary life. #blackhistorymonth #hearthealth #africanamericanhistory #cardiology

As ambassadors of cardiology, it’s our honor to spotlight a trailblazing heart surgeon and co- founder of the National Medical Association, during our Black History Month observance. Dr. Daniel Hale Williams’ contributions not only transformed the field of medicine but also paved the way for greater equity in healthcare. Dr. Williams made history in the early 1890s by founding Provident Hospital in Chicago, the first medical facility with an interracial staff. But his groundbreaking work didn’t stop there. He is best known for performing one of the first successful open-heart surgeries, a feat that was almost unimaginable at the time. With no access to modern surgical techniques or blood transfusions, Dr. Williams carefully sutured his patient’s pericardium (the protective sac around the heart). His patient not only survived, but went on to live for many more years, a testament to Dr. Williams’ skill and pioneering spirit. Dr. Williams’ legacy is one of courage, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to breaking barriers in medicine. #blackhistorymonth #hearthealth #africanamericanhistory #cardiology

National Wear Red Day, is the icon day of American Heart Month. On the first Friday in February, join us as we wear red and help raise awareness of women's No. 1 killer – cardiovascular disease. On National Wear Red Day, raise your voice, wear red and encourage others to do the same!  #WearRedDay #WearRedandGive #HeartMonth

We spotlight Women’s Heart Week, Feb 1-7, for good reason!  To ensure good health Women often neglect their health as they get caught up in their professional and personal lives. Women’s Heart Week was created to bring awareness and to help ensure women take care of themselves. Raise awareness on gender-specific health issues Heart disease is the number one cause of death among women. Women’s Heart Week raises awareness around this and what women can do as precautionary measures.  Assist in finding resources Bringing attention to women and possible heart issues is the first step. This could be you, your mother, sister, aunt, neighbor, child or other close contact that needs to schedule a heart screening. Being proactive is always an important step when it comes to the heart! #womensheartweek #womenshealth #heartmonth