2025 Orlando Heart Ball unites to create longer, healthier lives
ORLANDO, Fla., April 22, 2025— Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S.[1] In addition, an aging, more diverse population, along with a significant increase in heart disease and stroke risk factors among younger people are expected to nearly triple the nation’s price tag on cardiovascular disease (CVD) by 2050, according to published projections from the American Heart Association.
On April 5, the 2025 Orlando Heart Ball brought together community leaders, volunteers and survivors working to change that statistic. The gala showcased how research discovery, advocacy, equity and knowledge can make an impact and change health outcomes in Orlando. The almost $600,000 raised will help support the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association, which has been advancing health and hope for everyone, everywhere for more than 100 years.
“We are immensely proud of the impact the Heart Ball has on our community. This event is more than just a celebration; it’s a powerful statement of what we can achieve when we come together for a vital cause,” said Dr. Kalei Walker, cardiovascular surgeon at Orlando Health Heart & Vascular Institute and 2025 Orlando Heart Ball chairperson.
“Because heart disease and stroke remain the No. 1 and No. 5 threats to our health, it’s critical that we support the lifesaving research, education and advocacy efforts of the American Heart Association. Together, we can create a vision for brighter tomorrows free from heart disease and stroke,” said Andy Shunk, vice president of Orlando Health Heart & Vascular Institute and 2025 Orlando Heart Ball chairperson.
The event was a culmination of the year-round Heart of Orlando campaign that works to equitably improve and save lives from heart disease and stroke. The Orlando Heart Ball marks a moment to reflect, honor and celebrate the progress made through the discovery of groundbreaking research, advancements in equitable health, advocacy efforts at local, state and federal levels and equipping communities with lifesaving knowledge.
Orlando Health Heart & Vascular Institute proudly sponsored this year's event at The Waldorf Astoria Orlando, hosted by WKMG's Ginger Gadsden. In a sold-out ballroom with over 500 local guests, attendees were deeply moved by Pastor David Uth's inspiring survival story. After a fall during a routine bike ride, he discovered he needed open heart surgery and had a brain tumor. Seven local volunteers also shared their powerful stories of advocacy, discovery, knowledge, and health equity, vividly bringing the mission to life in Orlando. The event concluded on a high note, with the audience becoming "torch bearers" of the American Heart Association's mission by raising their cellphones, symbolizing the strength of community.
“We are deeply grateful to our guests, sponsors and volunteers for making this year’s event a tremendous success,” said Heather Maloney, American Heart Association, Orlando executive director. “Their generosity and support are instrumental in driving the American Heart Association’s mission to combat heart disease and stroke. We invite the entire community to work together to advance health and hope for everyone in Orlando, because our future is about improving the health of our community.”
The American Heart Association is the world’s leading nonprofit organization focusing on heart and brain health. For more information on how to support the American Heart Association visit https://www.heart.org/en/affiliates/florida.
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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, on Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries: 214-706-1173
Emory Parkins: emory.parkins@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
