Compiled by Cassidy Tyrone
The American Heart Association Heart Ball is a nationwide event that celebrates our mission to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular disease and stroke,” says Brittany Cervantes, AHA corporate market director for Bell, Brazos & Walker counties. The American Heart Association will host the Brazos Valley “Ravishing in Red” Heart Ball on June 5 at the Miramont Country Club.
According to the AHA 2015 statistics, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death globally, accounting for 1.7 million deaths per year.
“For more than 20 years, the Brazos County Heart Ball has promoted the AHA’s mission on a local level, and thanks to our donors’ support, we’ve seen inspiring advances in the fight against heart- and stroke-related illnesses,” says Cervantes. “This annual event not only raises awareness of our mission but helps bring dollars back to support research, innovative technology, and education and outreach programs to build a healthier community.”
Last year’s Brazos Valley Heart Ball raised more than $200,000. This year’s goal is to reach $240,000. Almost $60 million was raised nationwide. All revenue will go to supporting local research, awareness, education, and community programs in an effort to fight against cardiovascular disease and strokes. “Heart disease is still the number one cause of death in America, and stroke is the leading cause of long-term disability, but prevention can go a long way toward a healthier heart and brain,” says Cervantes.
Cardiovascular diseases claim more lives than all forms of cancer combined, accounting for one death every 40 seconds.
Every four minutes an American is killed by a stroke. Stroke is the leading preventable cause of disability. African Americans are at a higher risk for both strokes and heart disease, being at twice the risk for strokes and comprising half of all adults suffering from heart disease.
For tickets and event information, visit brazoscountyheartball.heart.org or email Brittany.Cervantes@heart.org.
Strokes are the number four cause of death in the United States, accounting for 129,000 lives lost every year.
The AHA gauges the cardiovascular health of the nation by tracking seven key health factors and behaviors that increase the risk for heart disease and stroke. They call these “Life’s Simple 7” and encourage Americans to practice them to improve cardiovascular health.
Life’s Simple 7
1. Not Smoking
2. Physical Activity
3. Healthy Diet
4. Body Weight
5. Control of Cholesterol
6. Control of Blood Pressure
7. Control of Blood Sugar
