Local family to lead campaign to improve heart health in the Upstate
GREENVILLE, S.C., Jan. 26, 2026 — Every 34 seconds, someone in the United States dies from cardiovascular disease—a reality that impacts families in every community, including right here in the Upstate.[1] Through the American Heart Association’s Heart of the Upstate campaign, former 13th Circuit Solicitor Walt Wilkins and his wife, Donyelle, will lead community-wide efforts to help ensure every individual in the Upstate has the opportunity for a full, healthy life. The Heart of the Upstate campaign engages local companies, community leaders and individuals to make a lasting impact across the four core pillars of the American Heart Association’s work: discovery, advocacy, access and knowledge.
The campaign will culminate at the 2026 Upstate Heart Ball, a celebration of the progress made possible by volunteers, donors and partners dedicated to the American Heart Association’s mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.
As parents of a heart disease survivor, that mission is deeply personal for the Wilkins family.
“It’s a great honor for us to serve the Upstate community in this role,” said Walt and Donyelle Wilkins. “We know firsthand how important this work is, and we look forward to partnering with our incredible team of volunteers and the American Heart Association to drive more breakthroughs and impact through science, policy and care. Together, we can build a healthier Upstate for all."
Walt served as the 13th Circuit Solicitor for nearly two decades, overseeing prosecution in Greenville and Pickens Counties. Known for his leadership in criminal justice reform, community safety initiatives and victim advocacy, Walt continues to be an influential voice in public service throughout the Upstate. Walt and Donyelle’s daughter Mary Burton Wilkins is a congenital heart defect survivor.
“Walt and Donyelle bring exceptional vision and energy as leaders. Their commitment to the American Heart Association’s mission, combined with a personal passion for improving heart health in our community, makes them an outstanding choice to lead this year’s campaign,” said American Heart Association Upstate executive director Ashley Coleman. “We look forward to working with the Wilkins family to unite leaders across our community and advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere.”
Joining Walt and Donyelle in volunteer leadership roles are Ambassador David and Susan Wilkins as 2026 legacy chairs for the Heart of the Upstate campaign. David and Susan led the Upstate’s first million-dollar campaign in 2015 and brought a legacy of service, leadership and passion for advancing cardiovascular health.
“We’re thrilled to join this incredible group of local leaders in supporting another impactful Heart Ball here in the Upstate,” said David and Susan. “Having had the honor of leading this campaign in the past, we’re proud to continue championing and celebrating the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association in our community and beyond.”
David served as U.S. Ambassador to Canada from 2005 to 2009 and is the former Speaker of the South Carolina House of Representatives, where he served for 11 terms. A respected attorney and public servant, he has chaired major international trade initiatives and continues to be a leading voice in diplomacy, economic development, and public policy across South Carolina.
The 2026 Upstate Heart Ball will be held on Friday, May 15, at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena. The annual event is a night to celebrate the Heart Association’s year-round efforts to build a healthier Upstate for all. Throughout the evening, the Heart Association will honor volunteers and patrons, share survivor stories and entertain guests with dinner, dancing and an auction. For more information on how to support or attend the Upstate Heart Ball, visit www.heart.org/upstateheartball or contact upstateaha@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:
Hunter Burton: hunter.burton@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
