Libraries with Heart Program Expands to Fontana Regional Library

PUBLIC RELEASE (07-11-2024)

AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION 

Libraries with Heart Program Expands to Fontana Regional Library

The American Heart Association launches initiative in additional counties to support better blood pressure control in Western North Carolina

Franklin, NC, July 11, 2024 — Fontana Regional Library patrons are now able to check out healthier hearts and brains through an expansion of the American Heart Association’s Libraries with Heart program.

In collaboration with local Together to End Stroke sponsor, Mission Health, supported by the HCA Healthcare Foundation, the association is excited to announce the extension of the Libraries with Heart program from Rutherford County to Macon, Jackson and Swain counties. The initiative aims to improve health outcomes by making blood pressure monitoring more accessible to the public and empower more individuals in the region to make positive health changes.

Fontana Regional Library patrons will be able to check out home blood pressure monitors and toolkits with information on how to measure and track blood pressure correctly and a list of local clinics for those without a primary healthcare professional.

Additionally, the public and library patrons can check their blood pressure at a specially designed kiosk at the following libraries:

• Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library
• Hudson Library
• Jackson County Public Library
• Macon County Public Library
• Marianna Black Library
• Nantahala Community Library

“We cannot thank the American Heart Association enough for offering this resource. The Libraries with Heart initiative has not only provided a wonderful opportunity for our community members to take control of their health, but it has also created a wonderful relationship between our library system and local health providers,” said Abby Hardison, Macon County Librarian. “I believe that together we can provide resources and information that could not only improve outcomes, but potentially save lives in our community.”

North Carolina has nearly 2 million adults (30%) diagnosed with high blood pressure, sometimes called a “silent killer” because it usually does not have any symptoms you can see. The Macon County high blood pressure rate is akin to the North Carolina average; however, Swain and Jackson Counties are higher than the state average with 36% of residents diagnosed with high blood pressure. 

Amanda Pack, Nurse Manager for Angel Medical Center’s Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehabilitation was part of the team who trained Fontana Regional Library staff.

“Unregulated blood pressure leads to many chronic health issues including heart disease, stroke, loss of vision, and more,” said Pack. “We are so proud of our local library, and excited they now can offer patrons the chance to take an active role in their health. We hope everyone takes advantage of this new community resource. “

To learn more about high blood pressure visit heart.org/highbloodpressure. For more information about the Libraries with Heart program in Western NC, contact Tonya.Ehrhardt@heart.org.

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 – our Centennial year – we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.