Heart, Strength and Purpose: Three Women Leading the Way in Heart Health Advocacy

This fall, Health Plan of San Joaquin is proud to sponsor the 2025 209 Heart & Stroke Walk, a signature event of the American Heart Association. Among the “Walk Warriors” leading the charge are three inspiring women—Lisa Vela, Sue Nakata and Shaunetta Ransom—who are not only partners and colleagues, but also champions of heart health and wellness in our community. Their personal journeys underscore the power of advocacy, resilience, and the importance of prioritizing one’s health.

Lisa Vela
CEO, San Joaquin County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

From Survival to Strength
For years, Lisa Vela put everyone else first. A survivor of domestic violence and a devoted single mother to six children, she worked tirelessly to rebuild her life and provide a future for her family. Her children, now professionals in healthcare, the military, psychology and international law, are a testament to her dedication.

In 2024, a car accident triggered a stroke that forced Lisa to finally confront her own health. For too long, she had lived with untreated high blood pressure, sacrificing her well-being in the name of survival. “I had always taken care of everyone else, but not myself,” she reflects. That experience became a powerful wake-up call.

Today, Lisa shares her story to encourage other women to speak out, seek care and embrace self-worth. Her journey is not only one of survival, but of transformation. She reminds us that true success is measured not just by what we achieve, but by what we overcome.

Sue Nakata
Administrative Support IV, Health Plan of San Joaquin

Walking with Purpose
For Sue Nakata, the Heart and Stroke Walk is more than an event—it’s a personal mission. As a heart disease survivor, Sue knows firsthand the urgency of early intervention and the life-saving power of awareness. What began as a commitment to raise funds and educate others has evolved into a journey of healing, purpose and community connection.

“Every step we take and every dollar we raise represent hope,” Sue says. “Hope for a future where heart disease is preventable, and where people have the knowledge and tools to take control of their health.”

Sue’s dedication is a reflection of her desire to give back and to honor those who walk beside her, championing a cause that touches so many lives. Community members can register to participate in the walk, which supports lifesaving efforts to fight heart disease and stroke, at www2.heart.org.

Shaunetta Ransom
Community Relations and Member Engagement Manager, Health Plan of San Joaquin

Advocacy in Action
Shaunetta Ransom’s path to heart health was shaped not only by her professional expertise in healthcare, but also by her lived experience as a woman of color navigating a system that doesn’t always listen. After experiencing symptoms such as fainting, fatigue and heart palpitations that were overlooked for years, she was finally diagnosed with a heart condition that had gone untreated for too long.

“It took months of appointments and persistent follow-up to get answers,” Shaunetta shares.

“Eventually, I found myself hospitalized—and only then did I receive the care I needed.”

Now thriving, Shaunetta follows the DASH diet and maintains an active lifestyle. She uses her voice to encourage others to advocate for themselves, push for coordinated care and embrace support systems. “We must be active partners in our health journeys. Speak up. Ask questions. And never be afraid to demand the care you deserve.”

Together, Lisa, Sue and Shaunetta exemplify what it means to lead with heart. Their courage and commitment are helping pave the way for a healthier, more empowered community—one step at a time.

For more information on heart health and how you can support the cause, visit heart.org.

Healh Plan of San Joaquin: hpsj.com