Southwest Florida showed tons of heart

The Southwest Florida Heart Ball sold out even before The American Heart Association sent official invitations. It raised more than $700,000 to help fight heart disease in Southwest Florida. COURTESY PHOTO

Organizers say the Southwest Florida Heart Ball will make a big difference in fighting heart disease in our community.

The event brought in more than $700,000 and was the most successful since 2020.

This year’s campaign was chaired by Dr. Iahn Gonsenhauser, chief medical officer at Lee Health.

“The support for this year’s Heart Ball was incredible, and I’m grateful to have been a part of the efforts to educate others about the risks and impacts of heart disease,” said. Gonsenhauser. “The mission of Lee Health to support the wellness of our community aligns with the work of the American Heart Association to ensure every person gets the support they need to be their healthiest self.”

“We are humbled by the outpouring of support at the 2024 Heart Ball,” said Jessaca Rodriguez, executive director of the American Heart Association. “It was wonderful to see so many community leaders join in our 100-year celebration and to kick off our second century of equitable health for all.”

The Heart Ball featured a moving story about 11-year-old, Levi Stock, who was struck by lightning and resuscitated when his father Derek used CPR. The goal of the American Heart Association’s Nation of Lifesavers initiative is to turn bystanders into lifesavers.

The Heart Ball honored Southwest Florida philanthropist , Lex Roulston, with the 2024 Heart of the Community Award. Dr. Robert Pascotto Sr., one of the region’s first cardiovascular surgeons, was recognized as the Centennial Golden Heart Award Winner with a heartfelt tribute.

See more pictures from the gala on Florida Weekly’s Society Page, B25. ¦

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