Roots and Hearts: Q&A With Olympian Isabelle Brasseur

What makes winter more bearable? Cute accessories, that’s what! With a couple months yet to go, our friends at Roots hold the key to all our bundled up cuteness. In recognition of Heart Month, they partnered with the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada on a collection featuring heart-themed mittens, key chains and of course, good ol’ Canadian toques! Olympian and heart disease warrior Isabelle Brasseur has collaborated with the campaign and below shares more! —Rachel Johnston

Hi Isabelle! Tell us a bit more about the campaign and how we can contribute.

The #ShareTheWarmth campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of heart health. Roots Canada and the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada have teamed up to create a limited-edition collection of stylish accessories for men and women. With every hat or pair of mitts purchased, $10 goes back to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Not only will they keep you warm, but you will help save lives, too.

Do you have a fave item from the limited-edition line?

I just love the mitts! Back when I used to train, I always had to hold my partner’s hand and I could never wear mitts or gloves so my hands were always cold. Now, I have a collection of mitts that I wear every day while teaching at the rink. They keep my hands warm and it feels good knowing I am supporting research for the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

What are some of the most important findings from the annual Heart and Stroke Report?

The main focus of the annual Heart and Stroke Report is that women are often misunderstood, or not always top of mind when it comes to heart health. It is important for everyone to acknowledge that heart conditions in women are very real and serious. We need to take care of ourselves and need to be aware of the signs of heart attacks and strokes. It is equally important to vocalize your symptoms and conditions in order to stay healthy.

Can you share some advice to those facing a heart condition?

I wish I had the perfect piece of advice to give but sometimes, like in my case, the conditions are hidden and the signs are hard to read. If you think something is not quite right with your health, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Be resilient in your research until you have a clear answer!

With the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics complete and the Paralympics about to begin, which sports do you enjoy watching the most and which athletes did you/are you rooting for?

I am rooting for all athletes from around the world, in all sports. They all have such amazing stories, dedication, strength and mental power. Having been there, I know how much of their lives they have sacrificed in the hopes of an Olympic moment or medal. Good Luck to them all, and may their dreams come true!