American Heart Association Doesn’t Skip a Beat to Honor the 39th Anniversary of Houston’s Heart Ball

The American Heart Association hosted their annual 2023 Houston Heart Ball on Saturday, February 11th at the Post Oak Hotel, raising $1.2 million. This year’s theme, ‘Every Beat. Everywhere,’ encouraged guests to honor the American Heart Association, both where it has been and where it is going, on the cusp of the organization’s 100th anniversary next year. The funds raised will allow AHA to continue investing in innovative research, medical discoveries, and educational programming to help eradicate heart disease and stroke.

The festive fête kicked off as partygoers arrived and enjoyed wine and cocktails alongside live entertainment from hip-hop violinist Demola. As cocktail hour concluded, guests made their way into the ballroom where the evening opened with remarks from KPRC’s Khambrel Marshall who served as emcee for the evening, followed by American Heart Association Board President and CEO Dr. Doug Lawson and SLB’s Olivier Le Peuch. The Post Oak Hotel catered the gourmet dinner, starring an herb roasted tenderloin and pan seared Chilean sea bass, that was complemented by champagne, wine and cocktails.

Following dinner, guests were able to bid on 6 live auction items such as a Hawaiian Holiday and Getaway to Puerto Vallarta. Khambrel Marshall introduced the Open Your Heart moment, brought by the Children’s Heart Institute at Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital and UTHealth Houston, with a video honoring an 11-year-old heart disease survivor. The evening concluded as guests raised a glass to the American Heart Association and moved to the dance floor for live entertainment by Manhattan Band.

Spotted in the crowd: Isabelle and Oliver Le Peuch, Dr. Doug Lawson, April and Dr. Jorge Salazar, Kim Williams, Chuck Pyle, Seliece and Lee Womble, Valarie and Nick Tran, Sabirah Rayford, Julie and Ron Finck, Jim Postl, Debbie and Jack Moore, Judy and Russ Labrasca, Randy Walker, Laura and Bruce Miller, Anne Neeson, Judy and Russ Labrasca, Rachel Clingman, Mandy and Zach Daily, Kristyn and Marty Hogan.

The American Heart Association is a leading force for a world of longer, healthier lives. With nearly a century of lifesaving work, the Dallas-based association is dedicated to ensuring equitable health for all. A trustworthy source empowering people to improve their heart health, brain health and well-being. AHA collaborates with numerous organizations and millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, advocate for stronger public health policies, and share lifesaving resources and information. Connect with AHA on heart.org, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

Photos by Wilson Parish