A heartbeat of hope: Parker Lee Helmerich to be honored at 2026 Tulsa Heart Ball
TULSA, Oct. 13, 2025 — The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, has named Parker Lee Helmerich as the 2026 Open Your Heart Survivor for the Tulsa Heart Ball. The ball, set for Feb. 27, coincides with American Heart Month, a time the organization sets aside to raise awareness and support for cardiovascular health.
Parker’s story is one of extraordinary resilience. Diagnosed with pulmonary stenosis and coronary sinusoids immediately after birth, Parker underwent a series of life-saving procedures, including open-heart surgery and ultimately a heart transplant. His journey included 346 days in the hospital, 34 minutes of CPR, time on ECMO, and a stroke — all before his second birthday.
“Parker is a living miracle,” said Kennady Irwin, development director for the Tulsa Heart Ball. “His story is a testament to the power of medical innovation, the dedication of care teams, and the hope that organizations like the American Heart Association make possible.”
The Heart Ball will feature Parker’s story through a special video presentation and program tribute, highlighting his courage and the impact of donor-supported research. Guests will hear how Parker’s family coined the phrase “Just Keep Swimming” — inspired by a bead shaped like a fish from the hospital’s Beads of Courage program — to symbolize his upstream battle and unwavering spirit.
Parker’s parents, David and Faith Helmerich, are co-chairpersons of the 2026 ball and say they hope Parker’s story inspires others to keep going, even in the face of unimaginable challenges.
“There were days we didn’t know if Parker would make it,” said mom Faith. “But with faith, expert care and Parker’s determination, he did.”
Now thriving at home, Parker is off oxygen, eating by mouth, and working on walking. He loves music, animal sounds, and brings joy to everyone he meets.
“Our family is deeply honored by this recognition. It’s a reflection of the values my father lives by — integrity, generosity and a commitment to making life better for others,” said David Helmerich. “We’re proud to carry those values forward.”
The Helmerich family is widely known for its legacy of philanthropy, civic leadership, and business innovation — particularly in the oil and energy sectors.
The Tulsa Heart Ball brings together community leaders, medical professionals and advocates to support the Association’s mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Funds raised help fuel research, education and outreach that make survival stories like Parker’s possible.
For tickets, sponsorship opportunities or more information, visit heart.org/TulsaHeartBall or contact Kennady Irwin at Kennady.Irwin@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
