Annual event celebrates record-breaking year, raising critical funds and awareness for heart disease, and stroke in Delaware
WILMINGTON, DE, May 6, 2025 — The 2025 Delaware Heart Ball united hundreds of community leaders, survivors and advocates on May 2 at the historic Hotel Du Pont to celebrate progress and raise critical funs to advance heart and brain health in Delaware.
This unforgettable evening—filled with inspiring survivor stories, lively entertainment and a spirited live auction—raised more than $100,000 in the room to support the American Heart Association’s mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.
Guests gathered to honor a year of impactful work and recognize local champions driving change in their communities. Highlights included tributes to volunteers and supporters, a powerful call to action, and stories that underscore the urgent need to improve heart and stroke outcomes across the state.
“The Delaware Heart Ball is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of the lives we’ve touched and the future we’re building together,” said James Murphy, executive director, American Heart Association Delaware. “The generosity of our guests and sponsors helps us fund lifesaving research, expand community health programs and create a healthier Delaware for all.”
This year’s campaign was guided by a volunteer executive leadership team and chaired by Joy A. Barrist. Barrist, a partner at Potter Anderson & Corroon LLP, helped drive momentum throughout the year and build strong support for the movement.
The event was made possible by the support of corporate and community sponsors including Harvey Hanna & Associates, M&T Bank, and Potter Anderson & Corroon LLP, among others.
To learn more about the American Heart Association’s impact in Delaware or to get involved with next year’s Heart Ball, visit heart.org/delawarehb or contact Ellen Vild at ellen.vild@heart.org.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org Facebook, X, or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1
Media Contact:
Athena Klapak
athena.klapak@heart.org
Public Contact:
1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org | stroke.org