OKLAHOMA CITY, March 24, 2025 — On average, someone in the United States dies of cardiovascular disease (CVD), such as a heart attack or stroke, every 34 seconds.[1] 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.1[2]

The American Heart Association, a global force changing the future of health for all, is fighting to change that. Residents of Oklahoma City are invited to join that work through the 2025 OKC Heart Ball, set for April 10 at the First Americans Museum. This year’s theme is “Building a Nation of Lifesavers” and will feature the story of Moore, Okla., mom and heart survivor Maria Dominguez.

Dominguez's journey is a powerful story of resilience in the face of severe heart ailments. As a child, she battled rheumatic fever, which led to aortic valve insufficiency and necessitated her first open-heart surgery at the age of 15. Years later, during her third pregnancy, her condition worsened, leading to congestive heart failure at 28 weeks. Despite the high risks involved, Maria's medical team decided on a dual surgery approach.

“No anesthesiologist wanted to do the surgery because it was a complicated case and two lives were involved,” said Dominguez.

At 31 weeks pregnant, she underwent a C-section followed by open-heart surgery to replace her aortic valve. The surgeries were complex due to her previous heart surgery and the presence of a clot, but they were ultimately successful.

Maria's story underscores the challenges of living with severe heart conditions and the strength required to overcome them. Her determination and faith played a crucial role in her journey, highlighting the human spirit's ability to endure and triumph over life-threatening health issues. The Heart Ball will also honor the cardiovascular surgeon who performed her heart surgery, the late Dr. Kyle Toal.

Toal practiced many years at several Oklahoma City hospitals until 1991, when he was asked to create a cardiovascular surgery program at Norman Regional Hospital. He took pride in the program he started, performing surgeries on thousands of patients and caring for thousands more. He met his wife, Dr. Susan Chambers, in medical school at the University of Oklahoma, and together they raised two sons and a daughter. Toal passed unexpectedly in February of 2023.

“This event honors the work we have done in Oklahoma City to get us one step closer to a world free of death from cardiovascular disease and stroke,” said Dr. Robin Singh, cardiac electrophysiologist with Norman Regional and a member of the Heart Ball’s executive leadership team. “We have worked tirelessly to educate more individuals and families in hands-only CPR and the warning signs of stroke. There is always more work to be done, and all of us in Oklahoma City can have a role in this vital mission."

Attendees will enjoy an evening of storytelling, dining, dancing and an exciting auction — all while doing their part to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere.

For more information on how to support the American Heart Association or how to reserve your spot at the OKC Heart Ball, visit heart.org/OKCHeartBall or contact Star Wolfe at Star.Wolfe@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, 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