2009 Heart Ball will strive to beat disease and save lives

YOUNGSTOWN — The American Heart Association’s 2009 Heart Ball will take place from 6 to 11 p.m. March 7 at Stambaugh Auditorium, spotlighting children and cardiovascular disease, and emphasizing pediatric research.

Each year, about 36,000 babies are born with a heart defect. Congenital heart defects kill more children under 1 year old than any other birth defect. Since 2003, the American Heart Association has committed more than $14.1 million in research for children.

Michelle Perdue of Warren is the chair of the ball for the second year in a row.

The program will recognize distinguished honorees, a local physician and a local clergyman who are making strides in the fight against heart disease and stroke.

Receiving the 2009 Cardiac Service Award is Dr. Felix A. Pesa of Humility of Mary Health Partners, who was chosen for his commitment to the community and his efforts to educate the public about the risks of cardiovascular disease.

The Rev. Donald King, pastor of Blessed Sacrament Church in Warren, is the recipient of the 2009 Heart of the Community Award. Father King is a heart attack survivor and has shown exemplary service in the community.

About the event

The Heart Ball, an annual black-tie event for the tri-county area, draws more than 400 guests every year and features dinner, live and silent auctions and music. Tickets are available for $150 per person. A portion of the ticket cost is tax-deductible. Funds raised from the ball go toward lifesaving research and education for cardiovascular disease and stroke in Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana counties and beyond.

For ticket information and details about sponsorship opportunities, contact Jeannine Donatelli at the American Heart Association, at (330) 318-1008.