PROVIDENCE, R.I., Oct. 30, 2025 — Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S.[1] In addition, an aging, more varied 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.
On Oct. 24, the 2025 Southern New England Heart Ball brought together community leaders, volunteers and survivors working to change that statistic. The gala showcased how research, discovery, advocacy and the knowledge to make an impact can change health outcomes of everyone, everywhere in Southern New England. The more than $415,000 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’re honored and thrilled that DiSanto, Priest & Co. could help spearhead a Heart Ball that raised $415,000 — a testament to our community’s incredible generosity and commitment to making a difference,” said Mike Mellor, partner at DiSanto, Priest & Co. “Supporting our community’s health and well-being is core to who we are, and events like these remind us of the collective impact we can achieve when we come together for important causes. We’re grateful to everyone who participated and contributed to this success that will directly impact lives in our community.”
The event was a culmination of the year-round Heart of Southern New England campaign that works to equitably improve and save lives from heart disease and stroke. The Southern New England 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.
DiSanto, Priest & Co, served as the chairs for this year’s event held at the Omni Hotel in Providence which was hosted by Lindsay Iadeluca and more than 300 local guests attended. Throughout the event, seven local volunteers shared their stories of survivorship, lifesaving advocacy work and community impact bringing the mission to life in Southern New England.
“We are deeply grateful to our guests, sponsors and volunteers for making this year’s event a tremendous success,” said Michelle Clark, executive director for the American Heart Association. “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 yours. We invite the entire community to work together so we can advance health and hope for everyone in Southern New England.”
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 2025-2026 Southern New England Heart Ball . To get involved, please contact Lindsay.Iadeluca@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 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
Contact: 401-864-8627; samantha.bowen@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
