ESTERO, Fla., Sept. 19, 2024 — The American Heart Association, a global force for longer, healthier lives, is proud to announce that Wilfredo Emanuel, a renowned interior designer, architect, HGTV Tables Wars local celebrity, and editor-in-chief of WE World Magazine, has been appointed chair of the upcoming 2025 Southwest Florida Heart Ball alongside co-chair Pamela Calligaro. The Heart Ball celebrates the collective impact made through passionate support of the American Heart Association’s Heart of Southwest Florida, a year-round effort aimed at investing in, saving and improving lives in the community.
“Wilfredo is the ideal person to head our Heart Ball campaign and has been raising awareness and volunteering for the American Heart Association over the last four years,” said Jessaca Rodriguez, executive director of development and community health at the American Heart Association.“
“Pamela is a longtime advocate and board member. Together, Wilfredo and Pamela exemplify true leadership. We welcome them to the Heart of Southwest Florida, an initiative that centers around better health for every individual by focusing on critical issues that serve as barriers to equitable health,” she said.
Past Heart Ball attendees may remember Wilfredo’s spectacular Honorary Survivor Table, which he has generously donated and designed for the last four galas. But what many may not realize is that Wilfredo has a personal connection-the driving force behind his steadfast support.
Four years ago, while at work, Wilfredo felt unwell and confused. He was soon rushed to the ER, where he felt detached from reality. Despite a normal EKG, he was shaking and kept under observation. Later, doctors revealed he had a heart attack and needed immediate surgery. He underwent four bypass surgeries, as the left side of his heart was dead.
This experience was a turning point for Wilfredo. It changed his perspective on life and health. He realized the importance of scientific research and care the American Heart Association focuses on. He understood, more than ever, the fragility of life and the importance of maintaining good health.
“I am honored to serve as chair of the 2025 Southwest Florida Heart Ball,” said Wilfredo Emanuel. “Having faced the challenges of a heart attack and undergone four bypasses, I am eager to work together with Pamela, our outstanding team of volunteers and the American Heart Association. Together, we must continue to strive to make a lasting impact on heart disease prevention. Thanks to the American Heart Association and the advances made in science, I was able to recuperate and begin a new life after four bypasses.”
Pamela Calligaro joins Wilfredo as the 2025 Southwest Florida Heart Ball co-chair. A longtime volunteer of the American Heart Association, Calligaro co-chaired the 2011 Richmond Heart Ball, which honored local first responders. After moving to Naples, she joined the Southwest Florida American Heart Association Board of Directors and began volunteering with the local Heart Ball campaign.
“Dealing with heart disease is well-known in my family,” said Pam Calligaro. “My husband died suddenly from cardiac arrest and two months later I lost my father to complications from a stroke. Several years after that I lost my sister to cardiac failure. As for myself, I had successful open-heart surgery in 2023 and I am living a healthy life now. I volunteer my time with the Association to be sure I can make a difference and to help them continue with the valuable work they do."
The 2025 Southwest Florida Heart Ball is scheduled for March 21, 2025, at Naples Grande Beach Resort. The evening 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 Southwest Florida Heart Ball visit our website here or contact Jessaca Rodriguez, executive director at Jessaca.Rodriguez@heart.org.
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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:
Janeth P. Castrejon, janeth.castrejon@heart.org
heart.org and stroke.org