The Olympic Medical Center Foundation’s Red, Set, Go Heart Luncheon presented by the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe set an attendance record Friday, Feb. 28, as more than 280 people gathered to learn how to prevent heart disease.

Held at the Vern Burton Community Center in Port Angeles, the event raised just over $50,000.

Proceeds from the event go toward the purchase of new cardiac rehabilitation exercise equipment for the Olympic Heart Center, OMCF Executive Director Bruce Skinner said.

“Because of our sponsors, 100 percent of all money raised at the luncheon itself will go toward the purchase of the new equipment,” event chairman Karen Rogers said. “In the past we have been able to provide funds for equipment that has saved people’s lives and we want to continue to do that.”

Speakers at the event included local cardiologist Dr. Kara Urnes, Dr. John Mignone of Swedish Heart and Vascular Institute, and Deb Reed, who told attendees how they can “Take Exercise to Heart,” the theme of the event.

Sequim resident LeAnn Stanley delivered the event’s annual heart disease “survivor” story.

About awareness

The educational lunch promotes that the key to eradicating heart disease is education, with this year’s message being proper exercise.

“The purpose of our event is to inspire women to become more educated on how to improve their heart health. Many women are surprised to learn that heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women,” Rogers said.

“We are still receiving donations toward the purchase of the exercise equipment,” said Skinner.

People interested in contributing may contact the foundation office at 417-7144, Skinner said.