News release from the American Heart Association:
Northeast Indiana Heart Ball has mission to save lives
Annual black-tie event supports American Heart Association research and education programs(April 8, 2013) – The American Heart Association’s annual Northeast Indiana Heart Ball will take place Friday, April 19 from 6-10:30 p.m. at the Fort Wayne Country Club.
The Heart Ball raises awareness for those affected by heart disease and stroke. Over 2,500 heart attacks and 2,100 strokes occur each day and heart disease remains the number one killer of both men and women, taking a life every 40 seconds.
The black-tie affair is led this year by Heart Ball chairman, Phil Bundy, Senior Vice President of First Federal Bank. Phil and his wife Elaine Bundy have a personal connection to the American Heart Association. Their daughter Danielle, 9 underwent heart surgery at just 7 months old and will still need to undergo a pulmonary value replacement.
“The Heart Ball educates the Northeast Indiana community and raises important funds to continue the lifesaving research of the American Heart Association. Ultimately, helping my daughter and every child and adult living with a heart condition,” said Phil Bundy.
Last year over $137,000 was raised to fund cardiovascular and stroke research and education programs.
This year’s Heart Ball will offer attendees the opportunity to support the American Heart Association’s efforts around children’s heart health. The association supports research around congenital heart disease in children and also has several initiatives that combat the alarming increase in childhood obesity.
The Heart Ball also plays a critical role in raising funds to support research at the state level. In the past five years, 2008-2012, the American Heart Association has funded 77 research awards with a cost of $8.7 million at six Indiana institutions.
The American Heart Association is second to only the federal government in research funding.
Bundy added, “It’s really great to be a part of an organization that is working every day and completely committed to enhancing the lives of our community.”
Over 250 people are expected to attend the Heart Ball, which will bring together Fort Wayne’s most influential leaders from the corporate, philanthropic and medical communities.
The event will include networking opportunities, dinner, jazz music by the Dana Christy Trio, Chuck Surack’s band, Prime Time, dancing and an exciting silent and live auction.
“This is going to be a fantastic evening where we will celebrate the work of the association, our generous donors, outstanding volunteers and most importantly our mission to save and improve lives, said Emily Hayes, Heart Ball Director.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary health organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. Our mission is to build healthier lives by preventing, treating and defeating these diseases – America’s No. 1 and No. 4 killers. We fund cutting-edge research, conduct lifesaving public and professional educational programs, and advocate to protect public health. To learn more or join us in helping all Americans, call 1-800-AHA-USA1 or visit rel=”nofollow”>heart.org.
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