2026 Heart Ball unites San Antonio for longer, healthier lives

SAN ANTONIO, April 21, 2026 — San Antonio raises $740,000 to support the fight against the nation’s No. 1 killer, cardiovascular disease (CVD). On Friday, April 17, the 2026 San Antonio Heart Ball brought together community leaders, volunteers and survivors of CVD to showcase how research discovery, advocacy, access and knowledge can make an impact and change health outcomes for San Antonio. The critical funds raised will help support the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone, everywhere.

“We are honored to host an event with such profound meaning for San Antonio,” said Dr. Nandish Thukral, 2026 San Antonio Heart Ball chair and president of Cardiology Clinic of San Antonio. “Since the Heart Association’s founding in 1924, deaths from cardiovascular diseases have been cut in half. Unfortunately, the Association predicts more than 6 in 10 in the U.S. are likely to have some type of cardiovascular disease by 2050[1], so supporting the American Heart Association’s lifesaving work is more urgent than ever. The Heart of San Antonio campaign is proof of what’s possible when we stand together for a healthier tomorrow.”

The San Antonio Heart Ball is a culmination of the year-round Heart of San Antonio campaign to improve and save lives from heart disease and stroke. It marks a moment in time to reflect, honor and celebrate the progress made through the discovery of groundbreaking research, improving access to quality health care, advocating for efforts at local, state and federal levels and equipping communities with lifesaving knowledge.

More than 600 local guests were impacted by the story of 2-year-old featured survivor, Eleanor Young, who was born with a congenital heart defect. Throughout the event, four local volunteers shared their stories of lifesaving advocacy work, bringing the mission to life in San Antonio. Cardiology Clinic of San Antonio and The Arthur O’Krent Golf Classic served as the Platform Sponsors for this year’s event held at Pedrotti’s Ranch.

“Our heartfelt thanks go to the guests, sponsors and volunteers who made this event possible,” said Vincent Real, volunteer board chair of American Heart Association – San Antonio and president and chief executive officer of Big State Electric. “Your support helps the American Heart Association bring lifesaving heart and brain health education, research and advocacy to San Antonio. Together we are creating a stronger, healthier community.”

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 heart.org/sanantonioheartball.

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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, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

For Media Inquiries

Reyna Caraveo: reyna.caraveo@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org