Southwest Florida Heart Ball Raises More Than $750K to Save Lives and Strengthen Community Health

Funds raised support research, education and advocacy to combat heart disease and stroke

Southwest Florida raises more than $750,000 to support the fight against the nation’s No. 1 killer, cardiovascular disease (CVD). On Friday, March 20, the 2026 Southwest Florida Heart Ball brought together community leaders, volunteers and survivors of CVD to showcase how research discovery, advocacy, access and knowledge can make an impact and change health outcomes for Southwest Florida. The critical funds raised will help support the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone, everywhere.

Jonathan Kling

“We are honored to host an event with such profound meaning for Southwest Florida,” said Jonathan Kling, COO, NCH. “Since the Heart Association’s founding in 1924, deaths from cardiovascular diseases have been cut in half. Unfortunately, the Association predicts more than 6 in 10 in the U.S. are likely to have some cardiovascular disease by 2050 , so supporting the American Heart Association’s lifesaving work is more urgent than ever. The Heart of Southwest Florida campaign is proof of what’s possible when we stand together for a healthier tomorrow.”

The Southwest Florida Heart Ball is a culmination of the year-round campaign to improve and save lives from heart disease and stroke. It marks a moment to reflect, honor, and celebrate the progress made through the discovery of groundbreaking research, improving access to quality health care, advocating for efforts at local, state, and federal levels, and equipping communities with lifesaving knowledge.

Beth, Evi, Jim, Gerry Mourelatos

More than 520 local guests were deeply moved by the story of 9-year-old Evi Mourelatos, whose life was saved by her mother, Beth Mourelatos, through CPR. Throughout the event, eight local volunteers shared their stories of survivorship, triumph, victory and lifesaving advocacy work, bringing the mission to life in Southwest Florida. NCH served as the Platform Sponsor for this year’s event held at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, Tiburón, which was hosted by News Anchor Joshua Cole from Gulf Coast News.

“Every life touched by this event reminds us why our work matters,” said Jessaca Rodriguez, executive director of the American Heart Association – Southwest Florida. “Because of this community’s generosity, more families will gain access to lifesaving education, research and advocacy. Together, we are turning hope into action and building a healthier future for Southwest Florida.”

Robert and Alexandra Cubeddu – Alvaro Zamora and Ashanti Abarca Selva

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 heart.org/swflheartball.

FEATURED PHOTO KARA DOWN

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.