Cardiologist and community advocate couple to lead 2026 Hot Springs Heart Ball
HOT SPRINGS, Ark., Dec. 11, 2025 — Heart disease is the leading cause of death in Arkansas, but Sapna and Dr. Srinivas Vengala are determined to change that. The couple will serve as co-chairs of the 2026 Hot Springs Heart Ball, a signature event of the American Heart Association’s Heart of Hot Springs campaign, which unites community leaders to fight cardiovascular disease and stroke.
Through this campaign, the Vengalas will lead efforts to ensure every individual in Garland County has the opportunity for a full, healthy life. The initiative focuses on four key areas: discovery, advocacy, access and knowledge — all aimed at reducing the burden of heart disease.
“It’s a great honor to serve in this role,” said Dr. Srinivas Vengala, a cardiologist with CHI St. Vincent in Hot Springs. “Heart disease is hitting Garland County hard — more than one in four adults have high blood pressure, and over 70 percent are overweight or obese.”
Heart matters have touched Srinivas Vengala’s life in a very personal way. A close friend experienced a cardiac event at very young age, and it opened Vengala’s eyes to the impact early detection and quality care played in the friend’s recovery.
“It made me realize how important it is to support prevention, education and research so that more families can have positive outcomes,” the doctor said.
“Together, we can create environments where the healthy choice is the easy choice,” he added.
Sapna Vengala shares her husband’s passion for improving community health.
“This event is not just a fundraiser—it’s a powerful platform to raise awareness, celebrate survivors, and support the lifesaving work being done every day,” she said. “I felt compelled to contribute my time and energy to make a real impact.”
Dr. Vengala, who sees firsthand the impact of cardiovascular disease, emphasizes that most heart conditions are preventable. “Simple daily habits make a huge difference: eating more fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly, not smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight,” he said. “Your heart is in your hands.”
The 2026 Hot Springs Heart Ball will be held on Feb. 7 at the Hot Springs Convention Center.
“Guests can expect a beautiful, heartfelt evening filled with inspiring stories, great entertainment, delicious heart-healthy cuisine and the opportunity to connect with others who care deeply about making a difference,” said Sapna Vengala. “It’s a celebration with purpose.”
The ball is supported by CHI St. Vincent, National Park Medical Center and Ouachita Regional Pain Management. For more information on attending or supporting the event, visit www.heart.org/hotspringsheartball or contact Kathy Findley at Kathy.Findley@heart.org.
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 100 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
