Listen to this articleThe American Heart Association’s Long Island Heart and Stroke Ball is set for Oct. 24 at the Garden City Hotel.
The event, which has the support from leaders in the region’s business community, is designed to fight and raise awareness about heart disease and stroke on Long Island.
“The Heart and Stroke Ball is an event that not only raises funds but also awareness for heart health for every Long Islander,” Christopher Palmer, managing partner at Cullen and Dykman, a law firm headquartered in Uniondale, said in the news release as the American Heart Association celebrates its 100th year.
Palmer is this year’s centennial event chair, as the organization aims to raise awareness about community health initiatives. “I am honored to chair this celebration during such a significant milestone for the American Heart Association,” Palmer said.
The event comes at a time when cardiovascular disease is considered the number one killer not only in the United States, but also on Long Island, according to the American Heart Association. And the disease claims more lives than all forms of cancer combined. But experts say the disease is preventable.
“Our community’s support and involvement are vital to the association’s mission,” Kathleen Stanley, executive managing director at Webster Bank and the association’s Long Island Board chair, said in the news release. “The Heart and Stroke Ball is a testament to the incredible impact we can achieve if we consolidate our efforts.”
Sponsors also include Mount Sinai South Nassau, with additional sponsors to be announced later.
This year, Cullen and Dykman is launching a sports equipment drive, “A Ball for All,” collecting sports balls before the event and bringing them to the ball for donation to communities in need. This initiative aims to emphasize the importance of physical activity in maintaining heart health and supports under-resourced communities.
“The Heart and Stroke Ball is more than just a fundraiser – it’s a celebration of life, resilience and the unwavering support of our leaders and the community,” Tara Lee Schneider, executive director of the American Heart Association on Long Island, said in the news release. “We are thrilled to gather again and continue our fight against heart disease and stroke.”