PEORIA, May 26th — On average, someone in the United States dies of cardiovascular disease (CVD), every 34 seconds.[1] An aging, more diverse population, along with a significant increase in heart disease and stroke risk factors among younger people, is expected to nearly triple the nation’s price tag on CVD.[2]  The American Heart Association, devoted to changing the future to a world of healthier lives for all, is fighting to change that. The Association is inviting leaders and supporters throughout Central Illinois to join that work at the 2026 Central Illinois Heart Ball. 

The American Heart Association will host its 2026 Heart Ball on Oct. 2, marking a moment to reflect, honor and celebrate progress toward advancing heart health. The event celebrates the Heart Association’s year-round Heart of Peoria campaign’s efforts to improve community health through the relentless pursuit of public policy change, access to care, education and scientific discovery. 

New name, new leader, same mission
This year marks an important evolution for the event. Formerly known as the Peoria Heart Ball, the celebration has been renamed the Central Illinois Heart Ball to reflect the Association’s commitment to serving every community across the region. Heart disease and stroke affect families in every county, from rural towns to larger cities, and the American Heart Association is dedicated to ensuring that lifesaving education, research and resources reach all corners of Central Illinois.

“Our work is not limited to one city it’s a regional mission,” Peoria, Champaign and Springfield American Heart Association Development Director Kaitlin McVey said. “By embracing the name ‘Central Illinois Heart Ball,’ we’re honoring the survivors, families and caregivers who represent every part of this region. This event shines a light on our survivors from children born with congenital heart defects to adults navigating life after heart disease or stroke. Their stories fuel our determination to do more — to fund research that leads to breakthroughs, expand education that empowers families and ensure every person in our community has the chance to live a long, healthy life. Central Illinois has an incredible spirit of compassion and resilience, and together, we can create a future where every survivor’s story is one of hope.”

Dr. Colleen Blackburn, vice president of operations at OSF Healthcare St. Joseph, will lead this new era of the Central Illinois Heart Ball as its inaugural chair. Blackburn is a board‑certified adult nurse practitioner and healthcare leader with more than 20 years of clinical and leadership experience. As a senior leader at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, she champions patient safety, quality and innovation. Previously, she served as director of cardiovascular services at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center, advancing cardiac programs and improving access to care across the region. Her deep connection to Central Illinois fuels her passion for improving community health and advancing cardiovascular care.

“This event is a reminder of both how far we’ve come and how far we still need to go,” Blackburn said. “In Central Illinois, we’ve committed ourselves to advancing medical research and equitable health, educating Central Illinois and championing lifesaving policies. But this fight doesn’t end here. Everyone in Central Illinois can help drive the change that saves lives.”

This year’s Heart Ball will bring together business leaders, healthcare professionals, philanthropists, survivors and community champions for an evening of storytelling, dining, dancing and an exciting auction at the Par-A-Dice Hotel & Casino in East Peoria. Guests will hear firsthand how local families have been impacted by heart disease and stroke and how community support fuels hope, healing and innovation.

“We are deeply grateful to our sponsors and volunteers whose dedication makes this work possible,” Blackburn said. “Their generosity strengthens our fight to create a future where every member of our community can thrive.”

For more information on how to support the American Heart Association or how to reserve your spot at the Central Illinois Heart Ball, visit www.heart.org/centralilheartball or contact Development Director, Kaitlin McVey at 319-759-9392 or kaitlin.mcvey@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 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: (312) 298-9335
Jorie Goins: jorie.goins@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org