American Heart Association annual event raises hope by generating funds and awareness to fight heart disease and stroke
HAMPTON ROADS, VA., June 2, 2025 — Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S.[1] In addition, an aging, more varied 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 May 16, the 2025 Hampton Roads Heart Ball brought together community leaders, volunteers and survivors working to change that statistic. The gala event showcased how research discovery, advocacy and the knowledge to make an impact can change health outcomes of everyone, everywhere in Hampton Roads. The more than $340,000 raised will help support the lifesaving work of the American Heart 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 MeShall Simmons, Executive Director for the American Heart Association Hampton Roads. “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 Hampton Roads campaign that works to equitably improve and save lives from heart disease and stroke. The Hampton Roads 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.
Bon Secours Hampton Roads served as the Platform Sponsor for this year’s event held at the Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront, which was hosted by Aesia Toliver and Tom Schaad, evening anchors at WAVY-TV 10. More than 400 guests were moved by the story of survivor First Officer Matthew Clark who suffered 12 cardiac arrests while in flight. Throughout the event, seven local volunteers shared their stories of survivorship, triumph, victory and lifesaving advocacy work, bringing the mission to life in Hampton Roads.
The night impressed with two local awards, the first being the Inaugural Heart of Gold Award in memory of Melony Daniels, the wife to Heart Ball co-chair Charlie Daniels who died of a sudden cardiac arrest. The recipient of the award was Vada Carawan, an 11-year-old Girl Scout, who saved her own father from a cardiac emergency using Hands-Only CPR.
Additionally, the prestigious R. Bryan Grinnan, M.D. Memorial Research Award winner was announced. This year’s recipient was Virginia Beach Emergency Medical Services. While accepting the award, Tom Schaad described the valiant and timely efforts of saving a local resident who suddenly collapsed.
“We are deeply grateful to our guests, sponsors and volunteers for making this year’s event a tremendous success,” said Dr. Dena Krishnan, cardiologist and Board President, American Heart Association Hampton Roads. “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 Hampton Roads.”
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 www.heart.org/virginia.
Editor’s Note: Heart Ball photos can be found https://www.facebook.com/share/1DX81HFKGr/. 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. 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, on Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Jaylyn Brown: 443-866-7733; jaylyn.brown@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
[1] Heart and Stroke Association Statistics | American Heart Association
