TEMPLE, Texas, March 20, 2026 — The American Heart Association will host the 2026 Bell County Heart Ball on Saturday, May 2, at Temple College, bringing together more than 300 guests for an evening dedicated to improving heart and brain health across Bell County. The ball will celebrate lifesaving progress powered by local donors, volunteers, survivors and corporate partners.

Doors will open at 6 p.m., with the formal program scheduled from 7 to 10 p.m. The Heart Ball aims to raise $250,000 to support the Association’s work in scientific research, community education, CPR training and equitable access to care. Guests will enjoy an elegant program featuring dinner, a live auction and a call to action through the Open Your Heart appeal. This year’s theme is Hearts of Gold. 

This year’s event is chaired by Dr. Christy Ponce, president of Temple College, a longtime advocate for educational opportunity, community advancement and workforce development. Her commitment to improving lives through education aligns closely with the American Heart Association’s mission to build healthier communities.

“Our community has a tremendous heart for giving and for collaborating to save lives,” said Ponce. “The Bell County Heart Ball brings us together to celebrate that spirit while investing in a future where every person has the knowledge and support to live a longer, healthier life.”

The evening will also highlight the inspiring story of 6-year-old Eva-Ann Greger, this year’s featured survivor. Eva‑Ann Greger was born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), a severe congenital heart defect in which the left side of the heart does not develop properly during pregnancy. She underwent three open‑heart surgeries: the first at just 8 days old, the second at 2 months, and the third at 2 years.

At only 3 months, Eva‑Ann experienced her first stroke, followed by a second stroke at age 2. The damage from the strokes placed her among the 1 percent of children whose complications lead to epilepsy. Eva‑Ann continues to face significant health challenges and is currently living with heart failure. Her story reflects resilience, strength and the urgent need for continued investment in congenital heart defect research and pediatric cardiac care.

The Bell County Heart Ball is supported locally by McLane Group. For more information about the ball or to get involved, visit heart.org/BellCountyHeartBall or contact Lyndie Miller at Lyndie.Miller@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. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than a 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

Cyd King: cyd.king@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org