American Heart Association annual event raises hope by generating funds and awareness to fight heart disease and stroke
Providence, Rhode Island, September 26th, 2024 — Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S.[1] In addition, an aging, more diverse population, along with a significant increase in heart disease and stroke risk factors among younger people are expected to nearly triple the nation’s price tag on cardiovascular disease (CVD) by 2050, according to new published projections from the American Heart Association.
On Friday, September 20th, the 2024 Southern New England Heart Ball brought together community leaders, volunteers and survivors working to change that statistic. The gala event showcased how research discovery, advocacy, equity and the knowledge to make an impact can change health outcomes in Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts. Nearly $75,000 was raised in the room Friday evening, helping the American Heart Association reach nearly $250,000 of the campaign’s goal. The funds raised will help support the lifesaving work of the Association, which has been advancing health and hope for everyone, everywhere for more than 100 years.
“We are immensely proud of the impact the Heart Ball has on our community,” said Larry Aubin, who serves as the chairman for the 2024 Southern New England Heart Ball. “This event is more than just a celebration; it’s a powerful statement of what we can achieve when we come together for a vital cause. Because heart disease and stroke remain the No. 1 and No. 5 threats to our health, it’s critical that we support the lifesaving research, education and advocacy efforts of the American Heart Association. Together we can create a vision for brighter tomorrows free from heart disease and stroke.”
The event was a culmination of the year-round Heart of Southern New England campaign that works to equitably improve and save lives from heart disease and stroke. The Southern New England Heart Ball marks a moment in time to reflect, honor and celebrate the progress made through the discovery of groundbreaking research, advancements in equitable health, advocacy efforts at local, state and federal levels and equipping communities with lifesaving knowledge.
This year’s event held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, in Warwick, which was hosted by The Rhode Show’s Audrey McClleland and Ashley Erling. More than 200 local guests were moved by the story of 3-year-old congenital heart disease hero, Ezra Podolskiy. Ezra needed two open heart surgeries in his first year of life to correct complex congenital heart defects and catheterization and placement of a permanent pacemaker. You can watch Ezra’s video here.
Longtime American Heart Association volunteer leader, Larry Aubin, was also award the Yvonne Heredia Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions over several decades to integral programs and developments for the Association.
“We are deeply grateful to our guests, sponsors and volunteers for making this year’s event a tremendous success,” said Michelle Clark, Executive Director for the Southern New England American Heart Association. “Their generosity and support are instrumental in driving the American Heart Association’s mission to combat heart disease and stroke. The Association’s future is about improving yours. We invite the entire community to work together so we can advance health and hope for everyone in Southern New England.”
The American Heart Association is the world’s leading nonprofit organization that focuses on heart and brain health. For more information on how to support the American Heart Association visit heart.org.
Sponsors included: CVS Health, D’Ambra Construction, Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Johnston, Tasca Automotive, Lifespan Health, Procaccianti Companies, Samsonite, Flood Ford, KPMG, Pensionmark Meridien, Crowne Plaza and Paul Masse Chevrolet. Media sponsors included: WPRI 12, iHeart Radio, Montage Media and Providence Business News.
Photo Credits: Jaquelina Paiva
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About the American Heart Association[HG2]
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 a century. During 2024 – our Centennial year – we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
[1] Heart and Stroke Association Statistics | American Heart Association