Heart Ball on March 28 will advance health and hope in Gainesville

Press release from the American Heart Association

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – On average, someone in the United States dies of cardiovascular disease (CVD), such as a heart attack or stroke, every 34 seconds. An aging, more diverse population, along with a significant increase in heart disease and stroke risk factors among younger people, is expected to nearly triple the nation’s price tag on CVD. The American Heart Association, devoted to changing the future to a world of healthier lives for all, is fighting to change that. Gainesville is invited to join that work through the 2026 Gainesville Heart Ball.  

On March 28th, Gainesville will host its 2026 Heart Ball, marking a moment to reflect, honor, and celebrate progress toward advancing heart health. The event celebrates the Heart Association’s year-round Heart of Gainesville campaign efforts to improve community health through the relentless pursuit of public policy change, access to care, education, and scientific discovery.  

The 2026 Gainesville Heart Ball is sponsored by UF Health, Decker Construction, HCA Florida Healthcare, W.W. Gay Mechanical Contracting, Inc., UF Health Rehabilitation Hospital/Select Medical, and Waldorff Insurance & Bonding. Attendees will enjoy an evening of storytelling, dining, dancing and an exciting auction at Valley View — all while doing their part to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere.

“We are deeply grateful to our sponsors and volunteers whose dedication makes this work possible,” said Shelby Bobbett, senior development director at the American Heart Association. “Their generosity strengthens our fight to create a future where every member of our community can thrive.”

For more information on how to support the American Heart Association, visit www.heart.org/GainesvilleHB