Zehm honored with statewide ‘Red Dress Award’

The announcement that Darlene Zehm has won the “Red Dress Award” was made at the annual “Go Red For Women” luncheon in Anchorage on March 1.

After surviving a heart attack, Zehm made significant lifestyle changes, lost more than 300 pounds and went on to participate in half-marathons and other races.

Last year, Zehm completed four half-marathons and participated in 17 different races. A retired educator, she also makes it a priority to share her story and motivate young people to be active. Each year she crosses the finish line of the Alaska Heart Run with one of her former students.

In recognition of the honor, she received a one-year lease on a red Toyota Camry courtesy of Kendall Auto Alaska.

The Red Dress Award, sponsored by Kendall Auto Alaska, gave residents in Anchorage, Fairbanks and Mat-Su Valley an opportunity to nominate a woman who had made significant lifestyle changes with positive health results.

A winner for each region was determined by online voting by the public.