Among many definitions, Webster describes ‘heart’ as “the essential or most vital part of something.” Therefore, it’s only natural to correlate heart-health as a vital part of your family. Quite simply: You can’t fully enjoy family time if you are not well, so why not put some heart into the health of your family? February is American Heart Month and the American Heart Association is encouraging families to learn about the risks of heart disease and stroke and how to maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle.

For our moms… The month-long health observance kicks it up a beat on Friday, February 6^th, for National Wear Red Day, an icon day aimed to raise awareness about the #1 killer of women: heart disease. Choosing to wear red can be a lifesaving fashion statement if you also use your voice to empower mothers, daughters, aunts, and friends. Post a picture of your Go Red efforts to Facebook.com/GreaterOrlandoAmericanHeartAssociation (and tag Orlando Family Magazine).

For our kiddos… Congenital Heart Defect Week (Feb. 7-14) focuses on increasing public awareness about CHD, which impacts 9 out of 1,000 births. Click over to the Yellow Brick Road Foundation (http://ybrf.org) ─ in honor of Holden Flynn, an Orlando child who lost his battle with CHD last year ─ or Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children to find local events.

For our couples… You can enjoy a gourmet Valentine’s dinner, live music, and dancing with your sweetheart while supporting heart disease prevention and research efforts at the American Heart Association’s Heart Ball at the Rosen Shingle Creek on February 14^th.

Is your family making an effort to embrace heart-health this month? If so, how?