Saturday evening, Bridgewater Commons Mall hosted a fashion show supporting Robert Wood Johnson Hospital. Due to February Heart Month, Bridgewater commons hosted the third annual “Go Red Fashion Show and Health Fest” on February 22 from 12pm to 3pm in the mall’s Center Court, on the lowest level.
Hosted by stylist Leslie Patricio, the fashion show featured heart survivors and healthcare practitioners modeling clothing provided by the mall’s big shops including Athleta, Bloomingdale’s, Chico’s, Lululemon, and Macy’s on the red runway. Hair and makeup was provided by Tara Beauty Salon & Spa.
Before starting the lineup, guests experienced a live music performance by pop/rock musician Devon Marie, who also shared the stage with musician Debbie Gibson and other artists, like Paul Shaffer, Dee Snider and Bret Michaels. The show was free and open to the public audience of the mall. Seats were first come first serve with a good view of clothing options.
Dr. Sanjukta Sanyal, a cardiologist at RWJUH Somerset and a member of the RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group, started the fashion show with important information for women about symptoms of a heart attack and strategies on how to keep a healthy heart. She stated, “Heart disease has been the leading cause of death for men and women in the U.S. since 1950, but there is much we can do to lower our risk.” She lists things like eating healthy and participating in some physical activity throughout the day.
Tom Kovacic, marketing and business development director at Bridgewater Commons, also said, “At Bridgewater Commons, we consider educating our guests about their heart health as a sacred duty to our community, and we are thrilled to once again partner with RWJUH Somerset.”
Bridgewater Township Mayor Matthew Moench added, “Once again, my family and I are proud to help support this important event, which continues to be so critical to the health of our community.” He was also featured as special guest speaker, with his own daughters walking the runway.
Family Health activities included kids fitness sessions, friendship bracelet workshops, heart healthy nutrition, a Teddy Bear Clinic and face paintings. Free blood pressure screenings were also available to the public. Guests were able to enter to win a $500 shopping spree to any of the participating shops in the fashion show and also receive access to special offers at the mall. The hospital and the center have also partnered on Go Pink at Bridgewater Commons each October to promote breast cancer awareness. Education and health promotion were critical parts of this partnership between RWJUH Somerset and Bridgewater Commons.
