Dallas, Texas, November 22, 2024 – The American Heart Association's annual Heart Fest, themed "Boots and Bling," lit up the state-of-the-art Omni PGA Frisco Resort on November 16, 2024, with an unforgettable evening of music, celebration, and heartfelt stories. The event, which aimed to raise awareness and funds for heart disease prevention and treatment, was a resounding success, drawing attendees from Collin County and surrounding areas for a concert and mission celebration. Dollars raised, currently totaling over $675,000 and counting, will support local programs aimed at improving community health, will help the Association provide education, and may fund critical research.
Janet and Mark Valentine, the esteemed chairs of the 2024 Heart Fest, were instrumental in the event's success. Their passion for supporting the mission and dedication to promoting cardiac health and community education was evident in every aspect of the celebration. Mark Valentine, President of Baylor Scott & White - The Heart Hospitals, Plano, Denton, McKinney, emphasized the importance of advancing treatments through research and education, sharing his personal connection to the cause.
A heartfelt tribute to Scott Grimsley, the featured survivor of the night, was a highlight for attendees. Scott and his wife Holly had been married for only six months when Scott developed a severe heart infection. Ignoring the warning signs, Scott's condition worsened, leading to sepsis. Holly faced the terrifying moment of saying goodbye as Scott was care-flighted to Baylor Scott & White - The Heart Hospital, unsure if he would survive the journey. A drummer by passion, Scott lost one hand and three and a half fingers on the other due to the infection. However, with the help of medical advancements and what he calls a great medical team, Scott made a remarkable recovery. After many long months of rehabilitation, Scott returned to his love of drumming with the aid of special prosthetic devices. He surprised the audience with an inspiring drum solo and even performed alongside music sensation Drake Milligan and the band for the song "She," a love song dedicated to his wife Holly. Because his life was saved, he and Holly were able to celebrate ten years of marriage recently.
"The overwhelming support received at this year's Heart Fest is a testament to the community's dedication to fighting heart disease. The Valentines have raised the bar, and the organization looks forward to continuing to do so with the next philanthropic leaders who step up to further this mission," said Meagan Johnson, Senior Executive Director of the American Heart Association's Dallas division. "Together, significant strides are being made in advancing heart health and saving lives."
The night featured captivating performances by rising country music star Drake Milligan and the Wyatt Weaver Band. Milligan, known for his hit singles and dynamic stage presence, delivered a high-energy performance that had the crowd dancing and singing along. The Wyatt Weaver Band, a local favorite, opened the evening with a mix of classic and contemporary country hits, setting the tone for a night of celebration and community spirit. Guests also participated in live and silent auctions, contributing to the cause with generous bids on a variety of items, including a signed guitar by Milligan with a donated upcoming VIP experience at one of his shows.
With the help of the evening’s emcee, Bianca Castro from NBC 5 DFW, the American Heart Association's Dallas team expressed gratitude to all attendees, volunteers, and sponsors who contributed to the local lifesaving initiatives and made the evening unforgettable. There was also a passing of the torch as the Association announced that the 2025 Heart Fest Chairs are Meg and Michael Gratch, President and CEO of Flow Therapy.
Connecting people across North Texas to the resources they need to be healthy and thrive is a major focus and part of the community solutions in the Dallas and Fort Worth area that the Association’s local team continues to replicate. Philanthropists and organizations interested in participating in Heart Fest or community impact in Collin County can contact Lindsay Walker at lindsay.walker@heart.org or (214)-450-3312. North Texans can also follow along on social by connecting with the local American Heart Association team on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Join the mission to fight heart disease and save lives.
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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:
Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org