IRVINE, CA Oct. 8, 2024  — Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S.[1] In addition, an aging, more diverse 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 Saturday, September 28, the 2024 Orange County Heart and Stroke Ball brought together community leaders, volunteers and survivors working to change that statistic. The gala event showcased how research discovery, advocacy, equity and the knowledge to make an impact can change health outcomes in Orange County. The more than $1.1 M 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. The event included a gourmet dining experience, auction and world class entertainment with Voices of Rock Radio, a highly decorated artist collective which included Grammy Award winners and performers with Billboard singles and touring credits. 

“We are immensely proud of the impact the Heart and Stroke Ball has on our community,” said Chad T. Lefteris, UCI Health President and CEO, who served as the volunteer chairman for the 2024 Orange County Heart and Stroke Ball. “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 Orange County campaign that works to equitably improve and save lives from heart disease and stroke. The Orange County Heart and Stroke 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.

The Association also presented its Centennial Award to Edwards Lifesciences in recognition of their overarching commitment to be a relentless force in support of advancing health and hope for everyone, everywhere. And for launching Target Aortic Stenosis and growing a nation of lifesavers by funding a mobile CPR kiosk in Orange County.    

Locally, Edwards Lifesciences Foundation, UCI Health and Providence served as Bold Hearts Sponsors for this year’s event held at the Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel, which was hosted by Spectrum News 1 Chief Meteorologist Robert Santos.  More than 300 local guests were moved by the story of a young teen that lost his life because no one was able to save his life with an automated external defibrillator (AED).  Throughout the event, seven local volunteers shared their stories of survivorship, triumph, victory and lifesaving advocacy work, bringing the mission to life in Orange County.

“We are deeply grateful to our guests, sponsors and volunteers for making this year’s event a tremendous success,” said American Heart Association Orange County/Inland Empire Board President, Pranav M. Patel, M.D., Chief of the Mary and Steve Wen Cardiovascular Division, UC Irvine. “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 Orange County.”

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 American Heart Association  - Orange County.

Editor’s Note: Heart Ball photos can be found HERE. 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. 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 a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

For Media Inquiries:

Daniel Ruacho, 480-773-2355; daniel.ruacho@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org