2025 CSRA Heart Ball unites to create a world of longer, healthier lives

CSRA, Feb. 19, 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 new published projections from the American Heart Association.

This month, the 2025 CSRA (Central Savannah River Area) Heart Ball brought together community leaders, volunteers and survivors working to change that statistic. The gala event showcased how research discovery, advocacy, equity and the knowledge to make an impact can change health outcomes in the CSRA. The more than $200,000 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,” said Dr. Michael Johnson, who serves as one of the volunteer chairpersons for the 2025 CSRA Heart Ball. “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. 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.”

The event was a culmination of the year-round Heart of CSRA campaign that works to equitably improve and save lives from heart disease and stroke. The CSRA Heart Ball marks a moment in time 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.

Piedmont Augusta served as the Platform Sponsor for this year’s event held at the Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center, which was hosted by WRDW News 12 and 26 anchor Zayna Haliburton. More than 200 local guests united to hear stories of heart disease survivors, celebrate scientific discovery and lifesaving advocacy, and give generously to support the American Heart Association’s mission. Throughout the event, seven local volunteers shared their personal stories of triumph and resilience, bringing that mission to life in the CSRA. The event also celebrated local Open Your Heart honoree Jordan Rice and his family.

“We are deeply grateful to our guests, sponsors and volunteers for making this year’s event a tremendous success,” said Ansley Howze, executive director of the American Heart Association in the CSRA. “Their generosity and support are instrumental in driving the American Heart Association’s mission to combat heart disease and stroke. The Association’s future is about improving the lives of everyone, everywhere. We invite the entire community to work together so we can advance health and hope for everyone in the CSRA.”

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 heart.org/southcarolina.

Editor’s Note: Heart Ball photos can be found here. Photo credit to the American Heart Association.

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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:

Hunter Burton: hunter.burton@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org