On February 28th 2020, Copa Style Magazine Editor-in-Chief Rodney Wayne Branche interviews Florence Dutchess Champagne, Host of the "Red Dress Gala Awards 5th Annual Celebration."
Florence "Dutchess" Champagne
Hosts
The 5th Annual
The Red Dress Gala Awards
By Rodney Wayne Branche Copa Style Magazine Editor-in-Chief |
Bill Hart Copa Style Magazine Staff Photographer |
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Copa: Florence, where are you from?
Florence: I'm originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Copa: At what time did you originally establish this wonderful Gala?
Florence: In 2012 I experienced a sever heart attack so I had to undergo emergency heart surgery, including having a pacemaker inserted. Before this situation I suffered with pain and shortness of breath. I would check in to the Emergency room at my hospital, only to be sent home. My symptoms were a bit vague because I was initially misdiagnosed. One day I found myself on the floor of a public building gasping for air. I eventually met a Cardiologist that injected dye into my system to check for blockage. They discovered that my main artery (known as the 'Widow Maker) was blocked 99%. There for it was recommended that they perform emergency open heart surgery to save me. I was asked if anyone had ever performed a cardiac cauterization in anyone of my previous visits to the hospital. Afterwards I was asked about my medical insurance. At the time I was not covered. Luckily for me the hospital made it possible to work everything out for me to undergo my lifesaving procedure. I thank God my life was saved, on the other side of things I became angry because not having insurance prevented me from receiving the proper care that I needed. |
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Copa: After undergoing that harrowing experience, what would you recommend for anyone who hasn't received a medical evaluation lately?
Florence: I would say if you're feeling any degree of discomfort to ask for any kind of test available to test your heart. Symptoms of heart issues are different for women than men. I had a situation with my jaw, I wouldn't say it was painful but it was difficult to swallow and I didn't know what it was all about. Even if you're feeling nausea you should look into it. These are all symptoms of a prevailing heart attack for women. I was also experiencing nagging back pain periodically. Ladies please be aware. Since then I've spoken on many panels and spoken to many doctors on this subject.
Florence: I would say if you're feeling any degree of discomfort to ask for any kind of test available to test your heart. Symptoms of heart issues are different for women than men. I had a situation with my jaw, I wouldn't say it was painful but it was difficult to swallow and I didn't know what it was all about. Even if you're feeling nausea you should look into it. These are all symptoms of a prevailing heart attack for women. I was also experiencing nagging back pain periodically. Ladies please be aware. Since then I've spoken on many panels and spoken to many doctors on this subject.
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Copa: Please share with our readers some of the activities at the event.
Florence: It's all about the survivors. After my experience I became a national spokeswoman for heart disease awareness. I would go to events and meet big CEO's, hospital administrators, but I would never see the survivors or patients honored or recognized from their ordeal. I felt that I should do something for them. Not only have they survived but they're thriving and giving back to the community. This is my calling so I give the survivors an opportunity to share their ordeal in a very touching way. Many people who attended this event really needed to hear about all of the challenges the patients have faced. Sylvia Traymore Morrison was the Mistress of Ceremony of the event, she is is a well know comedian around the country for many years. Fashion Show Producer Ron Cooke coordinated a fabulous fashion routine with his spectacular models! |
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Copa: Fantastic! Tell us a little about the food for that special evening.
Florence: We enjoyed Crab cakes, Roasted Cornish Hen, with delicious stuffing. It was all topped off with Chocolate Cheesecake for one of the options for Dessert. The VIP's enjoyed Shrimp Scampi at the reception with a delightful open bar.
Florence: We enjoyed Crab cakes, Roasted Cornish Hen, with delicious stuffing. It was all topped off with Chocolate Cheesecake for one of the options for Dessert. The VIP's enjoyed Shrimp Scampi at the reception with a delightful open bar.
For more information on the Open My Heart Foundation:
http://openmyheartfoundation.org/
