Joan Vassos’s heart journey began with the birth of her first daughter, Erica on May 2, 1991. Soon after birth, Joan received the news that her baby was born with a congenital heart defect known as Tetralogy of Fallot. At just four and a half months old, her daughter faced open-heart surgery and an uncertain future, a pivotal moment that changed the course of Joan’s life.
After a successful first surgery, Erica continued to grow. Joan’s kids went to school and participated in the American Heart Association’s (AHA) Jump Rope for Heart program. “We started this philanthropic thought in our kids when they were really young,” she recalled fondly. Jump Rope for Heart not only educated children about heart health but also inspired a culture of giving and caring within the school community. Joan was thrilled to see kids participating, knowing that they were learning valuable lessons that could save lives.
She was later connected to a local fundraising event in Rockville around Valentine’s Day. By collaborating with local leaders, including the town mayor and his wife, the event brought people together to support the AHA’s cause. As her involvement deepened, Joan was invited to join the Women’s Board of the American Heart Association in 2009. This opportunity allowed her to work closely with a group of passionate and dedicated women who shared her commitment to saving and improving lives. “It felt like I was part of an organization that knew their purpose,” Joan reflected, appreciating the rich history and established nature of the Women’s Board. Being part of an organization that had been making a difference for decades brought her a profound amount of joy.
The Women’s Board annually hosts “An Affair of the Heart” Luncheon & Fashion Show. Now in its 77th year, the Women’s Board has raised over $10 million to fund substantial AHA research grants from esteemed institutions in the Greater Washington Region. Joan cherished the hands-on nature of her role on the Women’s Board, where members actively participate in selecting grants to fund that could transform lives. “I am driven by the hope that other families wouldn’t have to experience the same heartache I faced.”
Joan knows firsthand how vital these advancements are for people born with congenital heart defects. Since Erica’s birth, many advancements have been made. Thanks to innovations brought about by research funded by the AHA, her daughter doesn’t need to undergo open-heart surgeries as frequently as before. Instead, Erica is able to have less invasive procedures to ensure her affected valve is working correctly.
In looking forward to the upcoming Affair of the Heart, Joan notes the event’s special and unique combination of philanthropy and fashion. Attendees enjoy an enchanted luncheon while being treated to a stunning fashion show that features the spring collection from Bloomingdale’s Chevy Chase. This creative approach helps draw in a diverse group of supporters—those who are passionate about heart health as well as those who appreciate fashion while championing life-saving work. With her daughter now 33, and her other three children thriving, Joan remains devoted to her advocacy work, driven by the AHA’s vision of advancing health and hope for everyone, everywhere.
Joan is a Maryland native and a University of Maryland graduate. She has held positions as a computer programmer at AT&T and in education administration with the Association of Independent Schools of Greater Washington and the Landon School in Development in Alumni Relations. She is now a nationally recognized television personality.
Join the Women’s Board and Joan at An Affair of the Heart on February 21 at the Marriott Marquis in Washington, DC. Guests will enjoy a fashion show presented by Bloomingdale’s, an exciting and new silent auction and exquisite luncheon starting at 11 am. An Affair of the Heart supports research and programming to advance the mission of the American Heart Association as a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Purchase your tickets or donate today at: www.affairoftheheartdc.com.
