FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. Oct. 7, 2026 — The 2026 Broward Heart Ball brought together community leaders, volunteers and survivors to celebrate how research, advocacy, access to care and education are improving health outcomes across Broward County. Funds raised through the event will support the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association, a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.
“The Broward Heart Ball is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish together,” said Ellice Martinez, executive director, American Heart Association - Broward County. “Through research, education and community support, we are helping more people live longer, healthier lives. We are grateful to the partners, sponsors and volunteers who make this lifesaving work possible.”
This year's event, held at the Diplomat Beach Resort, supported efforts to address cardiovascular disease, the nation's leading cause of death. Hosted by Miriam Tapia of NBC 6 and Telemundo 51, the evening celebrated the collective efforts of community leaders, volunteers, survivors and supporters working to create longer healthier lives across Broward County. One of the most memorable moments featured a ten-year-old survivor whose story served as a powerful reminder of the lifesaving importance of CPR and being prepared to act in an emergency.
“Our community came together with a shared commitment, ensuring every person in Broward has the opportunity to live a longer, healthier life,” said Broward Heart Ball Chairs Christina and Ryan Shea. “We are grateful for the generosity and dedication of everyone who joined us in advancing the American Heart Association's mission and creating a healthier future for our community.”
The 2026 Broward Heart Ball’s top sponsors include Cardio Partners, UKG, CITY HOME, Aligned Solutions and Right Management.
Since the American Heart Association's founding in 1924, deaths from cardiovascular disease have been reduced significantly. Yet projections show that more than 6 in 10 people in the United States could have some form of cardiovascular disease by 2050, making support for the Association's lifesaving work more important than ever. The Broward Heart Ball campaign demonstrates what is possible when a community comes together to build a healthier future.
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: 2026-2027 Broward Heart Ball.
Editor’s Note: Heart Ball photos can be found here: 2026 Heart Ball - Downtown Photo.
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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: 214-706-1173
Maggie Salas-Amaro maggie.salasamaro@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
