Press Releases

Last night, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) spoke in support of the bipartisan Cardiovascular Advances in Research and Opportunities Legacy or CAROL Act. The CAROL Act makes critical investments in research for valvular heart disease. Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY) spearheaded the legislation to honor the legacy of his late-wife Eleanor “Carol” Leavell Barr, who passed away last year at 39 years old from sudden cardiac death. The CAROL Act passed the House unanimously and now heads to the Senate.

“The CAROL Act is an opportunity to turn tragedy into hope,” said Congressman Bill Huizenga. “Over 25,000 Americans, predominately young women, lose their life from valvular heart disease each year. This legislation will invest in research, improve understanding of this disease, and save lives. While Carol isn’t with us today, she will not be forgotten. Because of the CAROL Act, fewer families will have to endure the tragic events the Barr family has. This is a wonderful and meaningful way to honor Carol’s memory.”

“With today’s vote, we are one step closer to pushing the CAROL Act across the finish line and enshrining Carol Barr’s legacy,” said Congressman Andy Barr.  “This bill delivers critical resources to close the gaps in understanding about valvular heart disease and save lives.  I am grateful to the American Heart Association, WomenHeart, the American College of Cardiology and so many of my colleagues who supported this bill from the start.”

“Women are more likely than men to go undiagnosed, and therefore to go untreated, for heart valve disease. By investing in research and increasing awareness of the risk factors and symptoms of heart valve disease, as well as screening and detection efforts, the CAROL Act will help address that inequity and will save lives,” said Celina Gorre, CEO of WomenHeart.

“More than 5 million Americans are diagnosed with valvular heart disease each year and this vital legislation helps spread awareness on a critical area of cardiovascular health. This legislation will make needed impacts on research and education to improve care for our patients,” said American College of Cardiology Health Affairs Committee Chair Samuel O. Jones IV, MD, MPH, FACC.