American Heart Association annual event raises funds and awareness locally
RICHMOND, VA, May 7, 2024 — The 2024 Richmond Heart Ball, presented by Dominion Energy, brought hearts together to save lives and strive for equitable health for everyone living in Central Virginia. With more than $1.3 million raised, funds will support the life-saving work of the American Heart Association to fight heart disease and stroke through local initiatives, including one to ensure one member of every household knows the two steps to save a life through Hands-Only CPR.
Over 70 percent of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happen in the homes and only 40% of people who experience an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest receive the immediate help they need. As a part of the American Heart Association’s 100th birthday, the organization is increasing its focus on empowering more people to perform hands-only CPR and save more lives.
“The Heart of Richmond campaign is all about investing in the community,” said 2024 Heart of Richmond Chairperson, Utibe Bassey. “That is why I became involved with this effort—to impact our neighbors and help everyone live a longer, healthier life.”
The event was a culmination of the Heart of Richmond campaign, an American Heart Association initiative that works to equitably improve and save lives from heart disease and stroke. The Heart Ball marks a special moment in time to reflect, honor and celebrate the progress made through the determination, dedication and passion of all who support the Heart of Richmond.
This year’s survivor honoree was Finn Blumenthal, local congenital heart disease survivor and American Heart Association national ambassador. Currently nine years old, Finn is one of the national faces for the American Heart Association’s Kids Heart Challenge. Families that participate in Kids Heart Challenge are introduced to Finn through Finn’s Mission, which teaches them how to perform Hands-Only CPR. To date, nearly 400,000 families have learned Hands-Only CPR through Finn’s Mission.
“Over 1.3 million dollars was raised for critical heart research that is going to change the lives of so many including our sweet boy,” said Kelly Blumenthal, mom to Finn. “Since our journey began nine years ago, the technology has already come so far. The American Heart Association gives us hope for Finn’s future.”
Funds raised through Heart of Richmond and Heart Ball support the Association’s 2024 Health Equity Impact Goal, which aims to reduce barriers to health care access and quality. The American Heart Association is the world’s leading nonprofit organization focuses on heart and brain health. For more information on how to support the American Heart Association through the Heart of Richmond campaign, contact Sommer Goldsmith at [email protected].
Editor’s Note: Heart Ball photos can be found here. Photo credit to the American Heart Association.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries: 214-706-1173
Audry Dubon: [email protected]
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org