Westchester residents gathered in White Plains Wednesday for the American Heart Association's Go Red for Women fundraiser.

The event focused on the reality that heart disease is the number one cause of death for women, as well as men. News 12's Lisa LaRocca served as the host.

Organizers said the fundraiser helps support the American Heart Association's research and awareness programs.

Stroke survivor Tanya Saiz told attendees why the mission matters. "We still have a long way to go in terms of educating women," she said at the end of her statement. "I actually had a stroke almost six years ago, so I struggled with that when I first had my stroke and that's what drives me to share my story and educate others. Knowledge is power."