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Long Island Executive to lead local effort driving equitable health

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James Prinzivalli paves the way for the 2024 Hamptons Heart Ball

into the Association’s next century

LONG ISLAND, NY, May 15, 2024 — As plans are underway for the 2024 Hamptons Heart Ball, James Prinzivalli, President of Executive Fliteways, has been named centennial chair of this year’s community-wide campaign. The Hamptons Heart Ball celebrates progress made through the dedication and passion of all who support the American Heart Association’s effort of investing in and saving and improving lives throughout Long Island.

“Mr. Prinzivalli exemplifies true leadership and commitment to Long Island and is the ideal person to head our Hamptons Heart Ball campaign for the Association’s centennial year. As a trusted member of our community, he understands the impact the mission and work of the American Heart Association can have on every person who lives on Long Island.  We welcome James to the Heart Ball, an initiative that centers around better health for every individual by focusing on critical issues and works to equitably improve and save lives,” said Mr. Joseph Perry, Chairman of the American Heart Association’s Long Island board of directors and Tax and Business Services Leader at Marcum, LLP.

In 2024 the American Heart Association will celebrate its centennial year, celebrating 100 years of progress and a vision for a brighter future for all.

“I am honored to serve as the Centennial Chair of the 2024 Hamptons Heart Ball,” said Mr. Prinzivalli.  “I am eager to work together with our outstanding team of volunteers and the American Heart Association as we all advocate to make a difference for the well-being of people in our community.”

The 2024 Hamptons Heart Ball is sponsored by Live Fierce. Life is Why sponsor Mount Sinai South Nassau and Live Fierce. Be Well sponsor Stony Brook Medicine and is slated for Wednesday, June 19, 6:00pm at The Wine Stand at Wölffer Estate in Sagaponack, NY.

The annual event is a night to celebrate the association’s year-round efforts to drive health equity on Long Island.  Throughout the evening the American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health, will honor volunteers and patrons, feature stories of survivors, and entertain guests with dinner, dancing and an exciting auction. For more information on how to support or attend the Hamptons Heart Ball, visit www.heart.org/heartofthehamptons.

Sentara Hospital, Regional Presidents to Co-Chair 2023 Hampton Roads Heart & Stroke Ball

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Two Sentara Healthcare executives will co-chair the American Heart Association’s annual Heart & Stroke Ball in 2023. Liisa Ortegon, President of Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, and Terrie Edwards, Southside Region President, will also co-lead a continuing campaign called Heart of Hampton Roads, which is focused on improving health equity and preventing heart attacks and strokes. The Heart & Stroke Ball celebrates the dedication and passion of all who support the American Heart Association.

“Both Liisa Ortegon and Terrie Edwards, exemplify leadership and commitment and they are the ideal individuals to head our Heart Ball campaign,” says Scott Kern, AHA Hampton Roads Board Chair. “They understand the impact the AHA’s mission and work can have on every person who lives in this area.” Ortegon and Edwards each bring more than 30 years of health care experience, ranging from bedside nursing to service line and hospital administration.

Liisa Ortegon leads the Hampton Roads region’s Level 1 adult trauma and tertiary referral center, which is also home to the Nightingale Regional Air Ambulance. The Sentara Norfolk General Hospital campus also includes the nationally ranked Sentara Heart Hospital. Prior to Sentara, Ortegon served as Senior Vice President of Operations and Chief Nursing Executive at Houston Methodist Hospital, Texas Medical Center, where she led transformational projects for cardiology and cardiovascular surgery, neurology, oncology and organ transplants.

“I’m passionate about the work we do to meet people where they are and provide access to quality care and services, Ortegon says. “We all know someone whose life has been touched by heart disease or stroke. If we and the American Heart Association can help more people understand how to reduce the risks and learn the warning signs and symptoms, we can help people live longer, healthier lives.”

Ortegon invests considerable personal time supporting community organizations. She serves on the executive committee of the board of directors of the Greater Norfolk Corporation. She serves on the board of directors of the Sentara College of Health Sciences. She serves on the board of directors and finance committee for Didlake, Inc, whose mission is to secure meaningful employment for people with disabilities, and she is an advisory board member of the Governor’s Health Science Academy of Norfolk Public Schools.

As Southside Regional President for Sentara Healthcare, Terrie Edwards oversees five area hospitals and Operational Process Improvement for the 12-hospital non-profit health system. Edwards previously served as Peninsula Region President for four years. She joined Sentara more than 14 years ago as President of Sentara Leigh Hospital during its on-site reinvention from a 1970s facility to a state-of-the-art replacement hospital, which was completed in 2016.

“I have experienced the effects of heart disease and stroke in my own family,” Edwards says. “Together, we must live the American Heart Association’s mission and do whatever we can to make a lasting impact on heart disease and stroke,” said Edwards. “These diseases do not discriminate, and it is up to us to be a relentless force for monumental change in our community.”

The 2023 Hampton Roads Heart & Stroke Ball is slated for May 20, 2023, at Marriott Norfolk Waterside. The annual celebratory event is a night to honor survivors, patrons and volunteers of the American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health. The evening will feature stories from survivors, as well as dinner, dancing, and an exciting auction. For more information on how to support or attend the Hampton Roads Heart & Stroke Ball, contact Laura Bynum at laura.bynum@heart.org or 757-812-4654.

The American Heart Association’s Heart of Hampton Roads campaign is a year-round effort culminating at the annual Heart & Stroke Ball. The initiative raises funds to support the American Heart Association’s mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives while supporting priority issues in Hampton Roads. Increasing nutrition security, improving blood pressure, reducing risks for women, addressing tobacco & vaping and educating others on Hands-Only CPR has been identified by the American Heart Association Hampton Roads board for 2023 to propel work to support the Association’s 2024 Health Equity Impact Goal by reducing barriers to health care access and quality.

Peoples president to chair Greater Pittsburgh Heart Walk

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PITTSBURGH, PA — The American Heart Association (AHA), the largest voluntary health organization fighting heart disease and other cardiovascular diseases, announces Michael Huwar, president, Peoples division of Essential Utilities, as chair of the 2022 Greater Pittsburgh Heart Walk.

As chair, Huwar is leading the organizational and recruitment efforts in Greater Pittsburgh. He is calling on survivors, walkers, and business leaders to join in to reduce disability and death from cardiovascular disease and stroke, the leading cause of death in the United States.

“We all know someone affected by heart disease or stroke; by supporting the Greater Pittsburgh Heart Walk, we can raise funds to save lives and help improve the health of our region,” said Huwar.  “Peoples is proud to be a strong supporter of the American Heart Association and we are committed to helping advance this lifesaving mission.”

The Greater Pittsburgh Heart Walk will take place at Point State Park on Saturday, September 17, with registration and festivities starting at 8 a.m. followed by the Heart Walk at 10 a.m. The event will include music, a kid’s zone, a survivor wall, free health screenings and more.

The Greater Pittsburgh Heart Walk is a fun and meaningful way to celebrate heart and stroke survivors, raise lifesaving funds and encourage physical activity. Heart Walks across the nation are anticipated to be the largest ever as families and co-workers leverage the opportunity to re-connect and get outdoors in safe conditions. Over one million Americans are expected to take part in a Heart Walk between September and November throughout the country.

To join the 2022 Heart Walk movement, visit www.heart.org/PittsburghWalk. From there, participants can access the walk site suggestions, form teams, and customize their own Heart Walk web page. Registrants can also use the Heart Walk mobile app and encourage friends and family to join the fun. On the day of the Walk, participants are encouraged to post pictures and videos using #PghHeartWalk.

The Greater Pittsburgh Heart Walk is supported locally by individual walkers and teams from around our region and by UPMC, UPMC Health Plan, Peoples, Giant Eagle, and The Lindy Group.  Scroll here for a complete list of local sponsors.

For more information on sponsorship or to donate to the Pittsburgh Heart Walk contact David.Robbins@heart.org. For information on heart and brain health, visit www.heart.org.

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The American Heart Association is devoted to saving people from heart disease and stroke –  the two leading causes of death in the world. We team with millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, fight for stronger public health policies, and provide lifesaving tools and information to prevent and treat these diseases. The Dallas-based association is the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-800-AHA-USA1, visit heart.org or call any of our offices around the country. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

 

For Media Inquiries:

Karen Colbert: 412.475.4928 (mobile);karen.colbert@heart.org

Follow us @AHAPennsylvania

heart.org/Pittsburgh

Philadelphia American Heart Association and the Philadelphia Union Hosts the Return of CycleNation at Subaru Park

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The American Heart Association/American Stroke Association (AHA/ASA) annual indoor cycling “CycleNation” event was held at Subaru Park in Chester, PA on Thursday, July 28th. The goal of the event was to encourage Philadelphia and surrounding counties residents to use cycling to improve heart and brain health, while raising funds to continue the AHA/ASA’s vital community programs, research, and advocacy efforts to end heart disease and stroke.

 

The American Stroke Association (a division of the American Heart Association) brought 30 stationary bikes to Subaru Park to host a CycleNation event for employees, volunteers, and sponsors. At the end of the workday, more than 50 people were led through several fun and energetic rides.

 

The goal of CycleNation is to use cycling and other exercise activities to improve heart and brain health, while raising funds to continue the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association’s vital community programs, lifesaving research and advocacy efforts to end heart disease and stroke.

 

Being physically active is key to preventing heart disease and stroke, the nation’s No. 1 and No. 5 killers, with stroke being the No. 3 killer in Western New York. To improve overall cardiovascular health, the American Heart Association suggests at least 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise, or 75 minutes per week of vigorous exercise.

 

CycleNation is nationally sponsored by Amgen and locally sponsored by Crozer Health, Philadelphia Union, Subaru, Arel Capital, Genesis HealthCare, Kemberton, and ProMedica.

To donate to the Philadelphia CycleNation, visit cyclenation.org/phillyride. For more information on the prevention and treatment of heart disease and stroke, visit stroke.org.

Four Pittsburgh companies make bold commitments to heart and brain health.

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PITTSBURGH, June 10, 2022 — On the ninety-eighth anniversary of the founding of the American Heart Association, Pittsburgh companies are making bold commitments to stand with the Association as it drives toward its 2024 Impact Goal which is focused on improving cardiovascular health for all while identifying and removing barriers to health care access and quality.

“As champions for health equity, the American Heart Association believes that everyone everywhere deserves the opportunity to live a full and healthy life,” said Kenyokee Crowell, senior vice president, Clinical Services, Highmark Health and AHA Greater Pittsburgh board chair. “Although we have made tremendous progress in fighting heart disease and stroke in our community, our work is far from complete. The American Heart Association Founders Day provides a great reminder that we must continue the fight, so every single person in our community has access to the resources they need to be healthy.”

The American Heart Association, the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke, was founded in 1924 by six cardiologists, and  the distinguished achievements of the organization over nearly one hundred years are the result of the passion of more than 40 million volunteers, supporters and employees who together have raised – and funded — more than $4.8 billion in research.

For nearly a century, the American Heart Association, has saved and improved lives, pioneered scientific discovery and advocated for healthy public policies in communities across the country. These bold moves have helped transform the nation’s overall health and significantly reduce heart disease and stroke death rates.

Reaching for bold goals is made possible because of like-minded organizations who share in the vision of better health for the Greater Pittsburgh region. Four Pittsburgh companies have pledged their support of donations of time, talent and funds through 2024. These companies are:

  • UPMC & UPMC Health Plan
  • FedEx Ground
  • Giant Eagle
  • Peoples Gas

”We are just getting started on the next chapter of our relentless work to end heart disease and stroke,” said Leeanna McKibben, MSN, RN, chief of staff, Office of the Senior Vice Chancellor, Health Sciences at the University of Pittsburgh and AHA Greater Pittsburgh board president. “We know that we can’t achieve our monumental goals alone and are grateful to the Greater Pittsburgh community for the passion and commitment they give to support the mission of the American Heart Association.”

Driving to achieve the 2024 Impact Goal, the American Heart Association will continue to lead breakthroughs in science and technology, improve health care and advocate for federal, state and local policies that drive healthier lifestyles.

To learn more about the American Heart Association visit, heart.org/FoundersDay or contact Karen Colbert for more information.

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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, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

 

For Media Inquiries:

Karen Colbert: 412.475.4928; karen.colbert@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org

2021 Southern New Jersey Heart – First In- Person Event Since the Pandemic

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On October 23, 2021, the Fall Southern New Jersey Heart Walk took place at the Riverwinds Community Center in West Deptford, NJ. This was the first outdoor and in-person event since the beginning of the pandemic. Over 600 people and even a few pets attended the Heart Walk and raised over $100,000. Nicholas Scardino, VP of Truist Bank served as the Fall Heart Walk Chairman. During an interview with POP 99.9 FM, he shared that he is a heart survivor and how he experienced a heart attack while looking in the mirror getting ready for work. Emma Kimenhour, Development Director for South New Jersey, and her team ensured that everyone was safe while having a great time.

 

The Heart Walk is designed to help companies positively impact employee overall health and well-being. The program is anchored in a series of customizable workplace events that inspires employees to be more engaged, reconnect with colleagues, get in their physical activity, support a great cause and have a lot of fun doing it.

 

Thank you to BB&T now Truist Bank, Zallies Shop Rite, Virtua Health System, Jefferson, Lockheed Martin, Bayada, M & T Bank, Pop FM 99.9 radio, Riverwinds Community Center, and the many other sponsors who supported the walk and for all those who volunteered to make this a successful event. It’s not too late to donate, go to www.snjfallhw.org.

 

Contact Emma.Kimenhour@heart.org for more information and how to participate in the 2022 Spring Heart Walk, date, time, and location to be determined.

Philadelphia’s American Heart Association Host’s Hard Hats with Hearts – First In-Person Event Since the Start of the Pandemic

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Philadelphia, PA. September 30, 2021 – The American Heart Association of Philadelphia hosted Hard Hats with Hearts, the organization’s first in-person event since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic.  The event was held at Xfinity Live! in South Philadelphia, to raise awareness about heart disease and stroke, the number 1 and number 5 killers respectively, of Americans which disproportionately affects the construction industry. Today, 1 in 4 construction workers are considered obese, and 25% use tobacco and do not get enough exercise.

The Association in Philadelphia is bringing “Hard Hats with Heart” to several construction industry employers to provide resources, education, and inspiration to help employees live a heart-healthier lifestyle in Philadelphia. During the pandemic, $405,750 were raised under Shawn Carlin’s (Vice President of Gilbane Building Co.) chairmanship.

Over 130 construction and healthcare providers attended the networking cocktail the outdoor reception on the patio of upscale 1100 Social at X-Finity Live!.

Philadelphia’s construction industry has been a strong supporter of the American Heart Association. Over 40 construction-related companies sponsored the 2021 Philadelphia Heart Walk including IBEW 98, Gilbane, Cordish Companies, Madison Concrete Construction, CBRE, and much more.

 

Join us on November 6th at Citizens Bank Park for the Philadelphia Heart Walk. For more information, contact Michelle Evetts at Michelle.Evetts@Heart.org or by calling (215) 575- 5239.

Is Your Heart Health a Family Matter?

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Our risk of heart disease is something many of us should know—as heart disease is the top cause of death in the U.S. And, as Bayhealth Cardiologist Mussaber Ahmad, DO, explains, personal risk factors aren’t the only ones to consider.

“Family history is also important to determine overall risk, as there is a genetic component associated with coronary artery disease,” said Dr. Ahmad, who became a doctor because both of his grandfathers passed away from coronary artery disease (CAD) – the most common type of heart disease.

To help figure out if genetics or a family history play a role in your overall risk of heart disease, Dr. Ahmad said you can start with the following key factors.

  • A first-degree relative (biological parent or sibling) who has/had heart disease
  • Any relative(s) who has/had any of the following:
    • Angina
    • Heart attack (myocardial infarction)
    • Heart failure
    • High cholesterol
    • Peripheral artery disease (PAD)
    • Stroke
    • Transient ischemic attack (TIA)
    • Thoracic or abdominal aortic aneurysm

Beyond this list, Dr. Ahmad said there are other factors that need to be taken into account. They include the age and gender of any first-degree relatives with heart disease and your family’s ethnicity/race.

“If a male first-degree relative has CAD before the age of 55 or a female first-degree relative has CAD before the age of 65, this is considered premature CAD, which puts you at higher risk,” explained Dr. Ahmad. “Another important factor is belonging to a high-risk race or ethnicity such as South Asians. By some estimates, South Asians account for up to 60 percent of the world’s heart disease population, despite making up only 25 percent of the world’s general population. Also, compared to the general population, South Asians have up to a four times greater risk of developing heart disease.”

“A history of pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia or a history of menopause before age 40 are other risk factors women need to consider,” he added.

Putting together your family history will take some time and effort. Dr. Ahmad suggests you start by finding out if your parents, brother(s), and/or sister(s) have or had any of the medical conditions mentioned above or other risk factors.

Once you have your family history compiled be sure to share it with your doctor. “As physicians, we use family history and your personal risk factors to determine 10-year and lifetime risk of cardiovascular disease, and then recommend the appropriate therapy based on your risk. Examples of therapies we may prescribe include statins and aspirin,” said Dr. Ahmad.

While family history plays a role, Dr. Ahmad said your personal risk factors for heart disease are most important. This includes ones such as hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, obesity, and age. When it comes to age, your risk of heart disease goes up with each decade of life. That’s why Dr. Ahmad also said screening with blood tests and identifying additional risk factors starting at age 20 is a good idea.

For other health tips, visit Bayhealth’s Community Health and Wellness blog  www.bayhealth.org/community-health-and-wellness

Delaware AHA Aims to Control State’s High Blood Pressure Rates

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34.6% of Delawareans have hypertension (or high blood pressure), which is the leading cause of stroke. The state of Delaware has the 4th largest rate of mortality from stroke in the entire US. The American Heart Association has gathered a group of advocates, hospital and private practice representatives, like-minded nonprofit organizations, physicians, and nurses to form the Delaware Hypertension Control Network. The group’s priority is to achieve more than 70% or greater hypertension control across Delaware by 2024.

As part of the Delaware Hypertension Control Network, the American Heart Association has partnered with Delaware Libraries to provide each public library with several Omron Blood Pressure Monitors. This program allows the public to “check out” free blood pressure cuffs for up to 3 weeks for self monitoring purposes.  The monitors are easy to operate and read and include:

  • Monitor
  • Cuff
  • User manual
  • Blood pressure pamphlet
  • Carrying case
  • Batteries

The goal of this program is to remove all barriers to accessable self-monitoring equipment so that members of the community can take the first step towards monitoring and controlling their own blood pressure.  To find out where to pick up your monitoring kit, visit spr.ly/1597

Young at Heart Free Digital Event Features CT’s Geno Auriemma

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The American Heart Association will host its first Young at Heart event on Thursday, November 5 at 5pm to raise awareness and fund research and educational initiatives. Originally planned as an in-person event, the free digital experience will include inspiring speakers, an Open Your Heart appeal, and cooking demonstration by celebrity Chef Richard Blais. The keynote speaker for the evening is Basketball Hall of Famer, Geno Auriemma, Head Coach of the UCONN Women’s Basketball team.

The Young at Heart event hosted by Kara Sundlun of WFSB will focus on prevention and lifestyle which is key to reducing risks for heart disease and stroke. Dr. Supriya Tigadi, assistant professor at the Calhoun Cardiology Center at UCONN Health will discuss how eating well and being physically active can make an impact on health at any age. Survivor speaker, Andrew Jones of Farmington will share his story as a heart transplant recipient at the age of 22 and its impact on his life as a competitive body builder.

The highlight of the event will be a keynote address given by Geno Auriemma. Auriemma will give insight to his life as a young boy coming to American with his family and how his experiences during that time shaped him to who he is today. He also shares his views on how to navigate the pandemic and be resilient through this time.

Rounding out the event will be a cooking demonstration by Chef Richard Blais. Richard Blais is a chef, television personality, restaurateur, and author. He appeared on the reality cooking show Top Chef and is known for his take on classic American cuisine. Richard was the runner-up for the fourth season of Top Chef and returned several seasons later to win Top Chef: All-Stars. Chef Blais will prepare Huevos Rancheros.

Through the support of sponsors and attendees, over $70,000 will be raised to fund education and research while making an impact on Greater Hartford’s health and well-being.

Serving as co-chairs are Ed Kindelan and Melissa Ferrucci of CohnReznick. The co-chairs will call on area volunteers, survivors and business leaders to join the fight against stroke to help increase awareness and prevention of strokes, and reduce stroke-related disability and death.

To register for the event go to http://hartfordheartball.heart.org. The event is free!

Little Hearts Get a Big Treat During Little Heart Hero Day Event

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National “Authorstrator” Ben Clanton brings Narwhal and Jelly to Connecticut kids

The American Heart Association’s eighth annual Little Heart Hero Day sponsored by ConnectiCare was scheduled to take place at Lyman Orchards in Middlefield during peak apple season in September 2020. As in the past, children with congenital heart defects would spend time playing games, painting pumpkins, taking hayrides, and enjoying healthy snacks while parents would spend time networking and enjoying time with their families. But of course, that was not meant to be with recent events.

The AHA knew they could not let the kids down.

“We had to do something great for these little heart warriors who look forward to coming to our annual event,” said Debbie Bender, American Heart Association Director. “We knew we wanted to do something interactive that the kids would enjoy over a Zoom call. When we came up with the plan, we had no idea if we could make it happen. To our surprise, it all came together!”

Nationally known author and illustrator, Ben Clanton was contacted and asked if he would be on a call with the CHD kids to show them how he draws his characters. Clanton, who lives in Seattle, Washington agreed whole heartedly offering his time to share his journey as an author and his talent as an illustration with the kids and their families. Clanton, most famous for his Narwhal and Jelly series, has also written and illustration other books including, Rot: The Bravest in the World, Boo Who? and Mo’s Mustache, to name a few.

The event was hosted by local congenital heart disease survivor, 16-year-old Olivia Belfonti who welcomed the guests and emceed the event.

The first guest, Dr. Seth Lapuk of Connecticut Children’s in Hartford shared educational messages around staying safe and healthy at home and at school during COVID-19. The tips included washing your hands frequently, wearing masks at school, staying socially distant while staying active as much as possible.

Next, the children heard from Ben Clanton who shared stories of his childhood and the difficulties he overcame learning to read. This led to his inspiration to become a children’s author. He then spent time drawing a unique character with suggestions from the “audience”. Asked to name a few animals to create a new character, the chat box sprung full of ideas which led to combing a unicorn, chicken and pig creating a “Unichig!”

Rounding out the event was a special message from pediatric cardiologist, Dr. Robert Elder of Yale New Haven Health. Dr. Elder reminded participants that staying emotionally healthy is just as important as staying physically healthy for your heart. He encouraged everyone to take time to destress, take deep breaths and encouraged the kids to keep smiling and have fun.

Although the event did not take place as usual, everyone who participated received a great treat, meeting one of their favorite authors one-on-one…3,000 miles away.

 

Lawrence + Memorial Hospital President Supporting Eeastern CT Heart Walk

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The American Heart Association (AHA), the largest voluntary health organization fighting heart disease and other cardiovascular diseases, announces Patrick L. Green, president and CEO, Lawrence + Memorial Hospital, as chair of the 2020 Eastern Connecticut Heart Walk. The Eastern CT Heart Walk will be a digital experience taking place on Saturday, October 17.

 As chair, Patrick Green will lead the organizational and recruitment efforts in Eastern Connecticut. He will call on thousands of area volunteers, survivors, walkers, and business leaders to step up to reduce disability and death from cardiovascular disease and stroke, the leading cause of death in the United States. The heart walk is slated to raise $300,000.

“I am extremely honored and excited to be named the chair of the 2020 American Heart Association Walk,” said Patrick Green, president and CEO of Lawrence +Memorial (L+M) Hospital. “My role with L+M as part of Yale New Haven Health, is to improve the health of the communities we serve, which is why I am excited to be the new chair of the Heart Walk. One of my goals will be to increase participation by the engaging our staff, physicians and the community. In addition, I hope to support the AHA’s mission to raise awareness of heart disease and heart health – it is the responsibility of every one of us to become more educated and more aware, not just of our own heart health but of those we love.”

The Heart Walk encourages people to incorporate walking into their lifestyle while benefiting the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association by supporting research and education. The walk also raises awareness of the nation’s two leading causes of death – heart disease and stroke. This year the Eastern Connecticut Heart Walk is a digital experience which will include a 4-week Step Challenge and a week of interactive educational events beginning October 12th and culminating with a “walk where you are” event on October 17th.

The funds raised from the Eastern Connecticut Heart Walk will go towards research, advocacy, CPR training and to promote better health. Visit heart.org to learn more.

For more information about registering for the Eastern Connecticut Heart Walk visit www.easternctheartwalk.org. For more information about sponsorship opportunities call Todd Munn at 203-303-3365

The American Heart Association and Yale New Haven Health respond to alarming drop in 9-1-1 calls fueled by COVID-19 fears

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New campaign, Don’t Die of Doubt™, emphasizes symptoms of heart attack and stroke, need to access care by calling 9-1-1 even during pandemic

Throughout the pandemic, patients have been hesitant to visit the Emergency Room for medical care. Yet, heart attacks and strokes haven’t stopped for COVID-19. Yale New Haven Hospital’s Heart and Vascular program saw a drop in patients coming to the Emergency Department for treatment of stroke and heart attack. To combat this alarming trend, the American Heart Association (AHA), the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all created a new public awareness campaign called, “Don’t Die of Doubt,” that urges people to call 9-1-1 and seek emergency medical care at the hospital if experiencing symptoms of a heart attack or a stroke. Yale New Haven Health Heart and Vascular is proud to be a part of the AHA campaign.

The campaign emphasizes that the best chance to survive an acute event, like a heart attack or stroke, is to call 9-1-1 and get an ambulance to the hospital where they are fully prepared to treat you safely. Hospitals are still the safest place to be during a medical emergency.

With news coverage of coronavirus cases still fueling fear of using emergency medical services, there is a critical need to reach everyone across the country with reassurance. People can receive safe care for heart attack or stroke symptoms, and other urgent medical needs, in hospitals.

When it comes to surviving a heart attack or a stroke, seconds count, and so doubting symptoms, and thereby delaying care, may prove deadly.

“Heart attack and stroke symptoms are always urgent. The AHA campaign is geared toward minimizing hesitation to call 9-1-1 in an emergency,“ said Francine LoRusso, MHA, RN, VP and executive director for Heart and Vascular Services, Transplantation Center and Medicine, Yale New Haven Hospital. “Our physicians and nurses know what to do even when things seem chaotic. At all of our facilities, including the Emergency Departments, we have increased efforts to keep our patients, visitors and healthcare professionals safe. These include screening, testing, cleaning, designated patient care areas and social distancing.”

Yale New Haven Health’s support of the American Heart Association’s mission will continue after the Don’t Die of Doubt campaign, with more events, also representative of the Yale New Haven Health Heart and Vascular Center, being planned for over the next 12 months.

For more about this campaign and community resources, visit www.heart.org/dontdieofdoubt.

Additional Resources:

The Association receives funding primarily from individuals. Foundations and corporations (including pharmaceutical, device manufacturers and other companies) also make donations and fund specific association programs and events. The Association has strict policies to prevent these relationships from influencing the science content. Revenues from pharmaceutical and device corporations and health insurance providers are available at https://www.heart.org/en/about-us/aha-financial-information.

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, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

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Lancaster County Family Shares Daughter’s Story at Heart Ball to Raise Funds for Cardiovascular Research and Education

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More than 260 Lancaster County business and community leaders attended the 35th annual Lancaster Heart Ball on Saturday, Feb. 1 at the Lancaster Country Club. The event raised more than $220,000 to support the American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, thanks in large part to the testimony of the Moran family of Mount Joy.

Austin and Addie Moran shared the story of welcoming their daughter Shiloh into the world in August 2019. Two days later, as they were getting ready to take her home from the hospital, they learned that doctors discovered four congenital heart defects. She battled a staph infection before being able to undergo life-saving open heart surgery to correct her heart defects. She continues to be monitored closely and will be returning for a stent-placement procedure due to a re-narrowing of her aorta, but the Moran’s are hopeful and enjoy seeing Shiloh grow into a healthy baby.

Children born with critical congenital heart defects like Shiloh’s have a much greater chance to enjoy a long and healthy life than they could only a few decades ago thanks to the advanced detection and surgical interventions available today. The American Heart Association has funded more than $3.8 billion in heart disease and stroke research, including research that led to the development of stents.

“It’s amazing that her life can be stabilized and repaired due to someone way back when making a donation to discover the technology and medical device that has become what it is today,” said Austin Moran. “We were so lucky to have family, friends, church and workplaces supporting us. Without that, I don’t know how people do it.”

American Music Theatre dancers perform at 2020 Lancaster Heart Ball. Photo by Lindsey Ford Photography.

Other highlights of the evening included a performance by American Music Theatre to welcome guests and set the Heart of the Forest theme, the Keep the Beat Dance Hour featuring songs that are the correct tempo for performing Hands-Only CPR, a heart-healthy dinner, a silent and live auction, and musical entertainment by The Uptown Band.

Volunteers from American Music Theatre accept the Kim McNabb and Glenn L. Myers Friend of Heart Award at the 2020 Lancaster Heart Ball. Photo by Lindsey Ford Photography.

Diane Murry & Bill Coder presented the second Kim McNabb and Glenn L. Myers Friend of Heart Award to Jim & Laurie Martin and Andrea McCormick & Michael Smith of American Music Theatre in honor of their commitment to providing exciting entertainment and design services to the Lancaster Heart Ball since 1985. The award was named after long-time Heart Ball committee member and American Heart Association volunteer Kim McNabb who passed away of a heart-related illness in 2018.

Funds raised will support the American Heart Association’s mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives through community education, public policy advocacy, healthcare quality improvement and investment in lifesaving research.

Barry Mitchneck, director of nursing for UPMC Pinnacle, is serving as the event’s chair. The Heart Ball is sponsored locally by the Gunterberg Charitable Foundation, The E.E. Murry Family Foundation, UPMC Pinnacle, The Byler Family Trust, Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health, Fulton Bank, WellSpan Health, American Music Theatre, Orthopedic Associates of Lancaster, Barley Snyder Attorneys, Cargas Systems, Jones Family of Dealerships, M&T Bank and other local supporters.

For more information about American Heart Association events in Lancaster County, visit www.heart.org/lancaster.

Former Philadelphia Eagles Safety Brian Dawkins and wife Connie to be Honored at American Heart Association’s 63rd Annual Philadelphia Heart Ball

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 The Philadelphia Heart Ball is excited to announce that Brian and Connie Dawkins will receive the Heart of Philadelphia award at the 2020 Philadelphia Heart Ball, set for February 22 at the famed Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum.   This prestigious honor is given to leaders in our community who are performing important philanthropic duties, which impact significant change in our society.

Through their work with the Brian Dawkins Impact Foundation, the family is committed to utilizing their knowledge and values to help disadvantaged young people, families and communities, while also promoting spiritual, mental and physical wellness.

Each year, hundreds of corporate, medical, pharmaceutical, and social leaders come to celebrate the mission of the American Heart Association at Heart Ball. This year, in addition to distinguished honorees, the Ball will focus its attention on the critical work taking place throughout Greater Philadelphia to combat some of our region’s greatest challenges that lead to life threatening health disparities, specifically food insecurity.

“Brian and Connie Dawkins are the perfect recipients of the Heart of Philadelphia award, as they exemplify everything this award holds in high regard,” says Rodger Levinson, 2020 Heart Ball Chair and President of WSFS Bank. “People like Brian and Connie Dawkins are making a large difference in the lives of vulnerable Philadelphians.  The values of the Dawkins’ family align with the mission of the American Heart Association and allows us to shine a spotlight on the ongoing need in our community.”

Philadelphia ranks at the top of large American cities whose residents are dying more frequently from premature cardiovascular disease.  Because of this, the American Heart Association’s Philadelphia Heart Ball will dedicate significant dollars towards addressing preventative issues such as food access, blood pressure management and safe streets.

 

 

 

Long Islanders Invited To Nineteenth Annual American Heart Association “Go Red for Women” Luncheon

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Men and women from across Long Island will be getting all their red outfits and accessories ready for the American Heart Association’s 19th Annual Long Island Go Red for Women Luncheon. Heart disease and stroke are the No. 1 and No. 5 causes of death of Long Island women. For more than a decade, women have been fighting heart disease individually and together as part of the Go Red for Women movement. Cardiovascular diseases cause one in three women’s deaths each year, killing approximately one woman every minute.

Since 1984, more women than men have died each year from heart disease & stroke. An estimated 43 million women in the U.S. are affected by cardiovascular diseases. When you get involved in supporting Go Red for Women by advocating, fundraising and sharing your story, more lives are saved. The Long Island American Heart Association’s 19th Annual Go Red for Women Luncheon on Thursday, February 27, 2020 at the Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury from 9:00am – 2:00pm. The 2020 American Heart Association Go Red for Women Luncheon is nationally sponsored by CVS Health. Bradley & Parker, Petro Home Services and Mount Sinai South Nassau are our Long Island Life Is Why Sponsors.

The American Heart Association’s 19th Annual Go Red for Women Luncheon combines an elegant luncheon reception, silent auction, networking opportunities and moving survivor stories. The Long Island Go Red for Women Luncheon will again feature educational breakout sessions presented by recognized and credentialed healthcare professionals, providing women with information, resources and hope to take action and live a longer, stronger life.

This year’s Luncheon will honor Nicole Penn, President of EGC Group, Barbara Liquori, Senior Market Sales Executive Northeast, Capital One Bank and the nurses of Mount Sinai South Nassau.

The honorees are committed to raising support and creating awareness about heart disease and stroke especially, as it pertains to women.

Tamsen Fadal from PIX 11 will emcee the event

The American Heart Association Go Red for Women Luncheon is attended by both women and men from business, health, education, local and state government. Local media sponsors include PIX 11, Long Island Business News, Cox Media and Connoisseur Media. Take charge of your cardiovascular health by attending the 2020 Long Island American Heart Association Go Red for Women Luncheon on Thursday, February 27, 2020. For information about sponsorship opportunities, ticket or table reservations, or other questions visit longislandgoredluncheon.heart.org.

 

Simple Cooking with Heart Baltimore Kitchen ‘Cooks It Forward’

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During the season of giving, the Simple Cooking with Heart Baltimore Kitchen brought together The American Heart Association’s staff and volunteers to prepare heart-healthy twists on Thanksgiving classics for JOY Baltimore’s 3rd Annual “Oh Give Thanks” Dinner. JOY Baltimore, an organization founded to end youth homelessness in Baltimore, will welcome and provide a warm meal for over 500 homeless, LGBTQ+ youth, and elderly in Baltimore City this Thanksgiving. Volunteers included the Young Hearts Board, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. and family of the Kitchen team who happily prepared heart-healthy macaroni and cheese and sweet potatoes. The Simple Cooking with Heart Baltimore Kitchen team and their volunteers are proud to be a part of this event serving our Baltimore neighbors this holiday season.

These special Thanksgiving Giveback Cooking classes are not the only opportunity to participate in classes benefiting the community. Created by Chefs Stephanie Rose and Alphonso Dixon, the ‘Cook it Forward’ cooking series will continue throughout the year.

“It is important to not only identify the need, but to do something to help fill the need”, said Chef Al, “that is why Stephanie and I wanted to create the ‘Cook it Forward’ program to bring together organizations, volunteers, family and staff to not only learn cooking skills but to provide meals for those in our community.”

For more information about Cook it Forward, please contact Alfonso Dixon at: alfonso.dixon@heart.org

 

American Heart Association’s 57th Annual American Heart Association Long Island Heart & Stroke Ball A Success

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Hundreds of attendees from the Long Island medical and corporate community came out to the Garden City Hotel on Wednesday, November 13th to attend the American Heart Association’s 57th Annual Long Island Heart & Stroke Ball.  The Long Island Heart Ball is an annual social event held to recognize outstanding accomplishments of individuals and companies in the area of cardiovascular science and leadership. This year’s theme “A Tale of Two Zip Codes” was to bring awareness that where you live can affect how long you live.

 

This year’s event was chaired by Wynne Nowland, CEO, Bradly & Parker, Inc. along with Medical Co-Chairs; Peter Fromm, MPH, RN, FACHE, FAHA Administrator, Cardiology Service Line Mount Sinai South Nassau & Beth Oliver, DNP, RN Senior Vice President of Cardiac Services Mount Sinai Health System. The 57th Annual Heart Ball honored Valentin Fuster, MD, PhD, Director of Mount Sinai Heart and Physician-in-Chief of The Mount Sinai Hospital as Medical Honoree and Corporate Honorees Thomas & Nanci Dufek, Dufek and Associates, CFOforaday®. Nanci was also the Survivor Honoree who shared her story that evening.

 

The American Heart Association promises that we will have an extraordinary impact on your life by empowering you and your loved ones to save lives, live healthier and enjoy more peace of mind about cardiovascular disease. Our mission is to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.

The hundreds of guests enjoyed an evening of dinner, dancing and a silent auction which offered an exciting assortment of generously donated items. The Long Island Life Is Why Sponsors are Bradley & Parker, Petro Home Services and Mount Sinai South Nassau.

 

For more information, tickets or for sponsorship opportunities, visit longislandheartball.heart.org or call 516-962-0797.

STEM Goes Red Encourages Young Philadelphia School District Students to Explore Opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math

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Although women fill close to half of all the jobs in the U.S. economy, they hold less than 25% of jobs in science, technology, engineering & mathematics (STEM).  The American Heart Association, a science-based organization, strives to make significant changes to these statistics by empowering more women to seek careers in the sciences. In order to move medical breakthroughs forward, more women need a seat at the table, making significant contributions to the advancement of women’s healthcare.

As an extension of the Go Red for Women movement, which empowers communities to build a sustainable culture of health, the American Heart Association has created STEM Goes Red, a movement to encourage young women’s interests in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, and explore careers in those industries. Students from the Philadelphia School District will hear from inspiring leaders from our community – including Dr. William Hite, School District of Philadelphia Superintendent and STEM Goes Red Chair Amy Novak, Project Executive, Torcon.

STEM Goes Red aims to prepare female students for the nearly eight million science, technology, engineering and math jobs available worldwide. Not only are American students generally unprepared to fill these roles, just three in 100 female undergraduate students continue to work in STEM fields after graduating. The American Heart Association is committed to building a brighter future, stopping heart disease before it starts, and paving the way to healthier communities. Innovation and big thinking require young, emerging students – both men and women – who are committed to making change happen.

STEM Goes Red will host 100 ninth and tenth grade students from the Philadelphia School District for a day-long event to empower young women to explore STEM outside the classroom. Students will gain first-hand experience and connect with vibrant community leaders. STEM Goes Red Event Chair, Amy Novak, who holds degrees in engineering, architecture and business will inspire students to pursue areas of STEM.

 “I look forward to encouraging these young women to pursue what challenges them, makes them happy and contributes to the development of our modern society,” says Ms. Novak. “More women at the table means more bright minds pursuing complex solutions for today’s environmental, healthcare and engineering problems,” continued Novak.

Students will have the opportunity to participate in hands-on breakout sessions with some of Philadelphia’s leading organizations, such as Independence Blue Cross, Pershing, Penn Medicine and Oracle. Students will also participate in a speed mentoring session led by female leaders from companies and organizations including: Nutrisystem; Temple University; Oracle; Vertex; and M&T Bank.

STEM Goes Red will take place at Penn State at the Navy Yard 4960 S 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 1911on Tuesday, November 13th from 8:30 am – 2:30 pm

Roanoke Go Red for Women Luncheon helps local women and families build healthy lives

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The American Heart Association and F&S Building Innovations encouraged Roanoke Go Red for Women Luncheon guests to support the health and well-being of individuals served by the Bedford Pregnancy Center and Street Ransom by donating personal care items. The two local charities and the American Heart Association share a common goal of helping Roanokers build healthy families.

The luncheon’s ‘Building Healthy Families’ theme and support of Street Ransom and the Bedford Pregnancy Center stemmed from the passion of Alicia Smith, Chair of the Executive Leadership Team for the Go Red for Women campaign and the association to make an impact on the health and wellness of women and families in Western Virginia.

Children and teens who are abused, witness violence or face other adversities are more likely to develop cardiovascular diseases in adulthood, according to a scientific statement by the American Heart Association published in the Association’s journal Circulation.  Stressful life events may also be linked to higher incidents of heart attack, stroke and other types of cardiovascular disease among adult women.

“Sometimes coming to events like this helps people heal, if they’ve been through (heart disease or stroke), just being with other people who understand what they’ve been through and can recognize and put an arm around them,” Smith said of the event.  “It’s an opportunity to see there are other people who care.”

Donations were collected at drop-off locations such as the Roanoke American Heart Association office, Grandin Court Baptist Church and F&S Building Innovations.  Guests of the luncheon also brought toiletries, personal hygiene products and baby items to the luncheon May 17.  Donations were packaged at the event by volunteers and delivered to Bedford Pregnancy Center and Street Ransom in June.

Dr. Redonda Miller, President of The Johns Hopkins Hospital, named as the 2019 Greater Maryland Heart Walk Chair

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The American Heart Association (AHA) is happy to announce that Redonda Miller, M.D., President of The Johns Hopkins Hospital, has been named chair of the 2019 Greater Maryland Heart Walk.
Dr. Miller is the president of The Johns Hopkins Hospital, the 11th president and the first woman to hold the position in The Johns Hopkins Hospital’s 127-year history. Dr. Miller has twice been named one of Maryland’s Top 100 Women by The Daily Record, Maryland’s business and legal newspaper. She has also been voted one of Baltimore’s Best Doctors and Baltimore’s Best Doctors for Women by Baltimore magazine. She received The Johns Hopkins University’s Alumni Association Distinguished Alumna Award, has been named a top women’s mentor by the Baltimore Business Journal, and was honored by Becker’s Hospital Review as one of 100 Hospital and Health System CMOs to Know. The AHA is proud to have her at the helm of the 2019 Greater Maryland Heart Walk, leading the way for a world of longer, healthier lives.
“It is an honor to serve as chair of this year’s Greater Maryland Heart Walk”, says Miller. As a physician, I often talk to my patients about the important role exercise and diet play in heart health. The Heart Walk allows me – allows all of us – to take that education and awareness into our communities. Our support of the American Heart Association helps guide the research and activities that have and will continue to save lives. I’d like to thank Johns Hopkins Medicine for supporting this important cause.”
The Greater Maryland Heart Walk is the American Heart Association’s mission in action. This annual celebration of life promotes physical activity and heart-healthy living for the whole family. The 2019 Greater Maryland Heart Walk has a goal to raise $1,500,000 for the American Heart Association’s life-saving mission to build healthier lives free from cardiovascular diseases and stroke. The Walk is a non-competitive, three-mile walk, or one-mile walk at Camden Yards Sports Complex and is open to both corporate and community teams as well as individuals. Event festivities include Zumba, a Kids Zone, a Dog Agility Course, activity stations, and fun for the entire family.
In 2018, more than 5,000 walkers and sponsors in the Greater Maryland Region raised just over $1,300,000 in support of the American Heart Association.

DANFORM SHOES WINS INAUGURAL HEART WALK CUP CHALLENGE

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More than 600 Heart Walk participants and volunteers gathered at Oakledge Park in Burlington on Saturday, September 26, 2015. Families, co-workers and survivors gathered under sunny skies to celebrate the Vermont Heart Walk and raised more than $60,000 to support vital research and education. The top fundraising team was Danform Shoes who raised $3,082. They are the first to win the Heart Walk Cup which is a friendly competition to encourage local teams to support the mission of the American Heart Association.

Heart disease remains the number one killer of Americans, claiming a life every 90 seconds. Stroke is the No. 5 cause of death in the United States, killing more than 129,000 people a year. That’s why Vermont residents are inspired to participate in the Heart Walk each year, many in honor of someone they love who is affected by cardiovascular disease.

The Heart Walk is an American Heart Association celebration to build healthier lives, free from cardiovascular disease and stroke. The event featured free health screenings, health advice from experts, giveaways, a kids’ zone, healthy snacks and a free Subway lunch. Dozens of heart disease and stroke survivors of all ages attended, wearing red “Survivor” caps and “Little Heart Hero” capes.

The American Heart Association uses the funds raised through the Heart Walk to finance cutting-edge scientific research, conduct public and professional educational programs and advocate for public health. In Vermont alone, $700,000 in scientific research is currently funded by the American Heart Association at the University of Vermont.

The Vermont Heart Walk is sponsored nationally by SUBWAY® and locally by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont, Star 92.9, Local 22 and Local 44

American Heart Association announces 34th annual Heart Ball

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The Buffalo Niagara Division of the American Heart Association (AHA) is pleased to announce Anthony J. Baynes, Chairman of A.J. Baynes Group, and James W. CAnthony Baynesornell, CEO of Praxiis Advisors, as the volunteer co-chairmen for the 2014 Heart Ball. The annual black-tie event will take place on Saturday, May 31st at the Hyatt Regency Downtown. Baynes and Cornell are leading the organization’s appeal to the local business community to support the AHA’s mission to build healthier lives, free from cardiovascular diseases and stroke by supporting the event.

For more than 30 years, the Buffalo Niagara Heart Ball has promoted the AHA’s mission on a local level, and thanks to the support of community donors, there have been inspiring advances in the fight against heart disease and stroke, including:

  • Innovative Research.  Bright young researchers do pioneering work because AHA funding has produced revolutionary discoveries that have led to CPR, clot-busting drugs, the pacemaker, and drug-eluting stents.  Currently, the AHA funds $1.8 million in research grants in Western New York.
  • Vital Local Education.  Providing resources to the Buffalo Niagara Region for wellness programs in the workplace and in schools.  The AHA offers tools to lower risk factors, to recognize warning signs, and to respond in an emergency.
  • Quality Health Care.  Funds raised help the American Heart Association develop guidelines that give patients the best possible care. The AHA guidelines help doctors and hospitals put evidence-based protocols in place.
  • A Voice in Government.  The AHA advocacy network champions key issues at the local, state and national levels to make us all safe from our region’s leading killer, cardiovascular disease. One recent success includes the passage of the pulse-ox law – a simple, non-invasive screening test for all newborns that could identify a congenital heart defect that may otherwise go undetected.

“Jim and I are both survivors, so this cause is very personal for us. And we are certainly not alone, almost everyone knows someone affected by heart disease and have seen the benefits of the American Heart Association’s work,” states Baynes. “We are making strides,” Cornell agrees. “The prevalence of heart disease in our community is devastating, but we can change these statistics. Heart disease and stroke can be prevented.”

For more information on table and sponsorship opportunities please contact the American Heart Association at 716-614-1985. The American Heart Association’s Heart Ball is locally sponsored by, A.J. Baynes Group,Praxiis Advisors, and WGRZ.