Our 2025 Women of Inspiration honoree, Nick of Time Foundation, is dedicated to protecting the hearts of young people, and will continue to do so. And last week, surrounded by women who pour so much into their families, their work, and their communities, we were reminded of another heart that too often goes unattended: yours.
Women are so often the caregivers. We look after our children, our partners, our parents and in-laws, our neighbors, and our friends having a hard week. We carry the calendars, the worries, and the late-night what-ifs, and almost without exception, we put ourselves last.
Here's the truth flight attendants have been telling us for decades: secure your own oxygen mask before helping others. It isn't selfish. It's the only way you can keep showing up for the people who depend on you. Caregiving is demanding, relentless work, and because many primary caregivers are women, caregiver burnout is now widely recognized as a serious women's health issue. Chronic stress, exhaustion, and constantly placing yourself second take a real toll on both your physical and mental health and on your heart.
So, consider this your gentle reminder: schedule the checkup.
Learn the warning signs, which can look different in women than in men.
Take care of the caregiver.
And whether you want to protect your own heart or be ready to save someone else, there are two meaningful ways to take action.
Learn CPR. You don't need a medical background to save a life; you need a few hours and the willingness to learn. The Medic One Foundation offers in-person, hands-on CPR/AED and First Aid classes throughout King County, taught by certified instructors using the American Heart Association curriculum. A certification card is just $30, and if you don't need the card, you're welcome to attend at no cost. You can find an upcoming class and register at mediconefoundation.org.
Get the young people in your life screened. Sudden cardiac arrest can strike a seemingly healthy young person with no warning, and that is how Nick’s life was lost. A simple, painless ECG screening can detect the hidden heart conditions that put kids at risk. Through the Nick of Time Foundation, heart screenings are free for young people ages 12–24. Find an upcoming screening and learn more about the Foundation at nickoftimefoundation.org.
You spend your life looking after everyone else's heart. Last week, our WISE Seattle community took a moment for ourselves. Now, we carry that energy forward to protect the hearts of the people we love, because the most powerful thing a prepared heart can do is keep another one beating.
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