Amy's Blog

Fortunes of the Heart

What a beautiful, elegant Heart Gala 2010. From the moment you entered the Schermerhorn Symphony Center on the red carpet, under the warm glow of the Chinese lanterns, you could feel the positive energy and enthusiasm of all the people involved.  Some 450 people attended the sell-out event.The heart association tells me the gala is projected to net 545 thousand dollars!  In addition to that, 175 thousand dollars was raised for the children's health special appeal campaign. It targets the growing and critical health issues facing children in our world today. Those dollars were raised thanks to a 50 thousand dollar matching gift from the Martin Foundation along with contributions from additional special appeal sponsors at the gala. As an example of that critical need in young people, 19 year old Nykia Babb spoke at the event, talking about what she's experienced in her young life....a heart transplant just a little over a year ago!  She was attending the University of Tennessee, in her freshman year when she got sick. You can learn more about Nykia on this web site. I interviewed her last February and that segment will give you real insight into this amazing young woman, her strength and an example of how heart disease can touch even a seemingly healthy young person. Nykia is such a great advocate for heart health and a role model for young women. Her sister and grandmother were also at the gala, and I know they're so proud of her.

Saint Thomas Heart was the presenting sponsor of the gala. The theme of the evening was "Fortunes of the Heart." After a silent auction where couples mingled and placed their bids on great trips, art, jewelry and other items, we moved into the main concert hall and were entertained by "Lion" dancers. There was also a live auction with some pretty amazing opportunities for adventure!  You'll see a few pictures I took at the party including one of Dr. & Mrs. Howard Walpole, a cardiologist with Saint Thomas Heart and president of the local heart association board. I also included one of my husband, Keith Simpkins and me!  We didn't stay for the dancing, but I can only imagine those who did had a great time. There were so many special touches throughout the event. Even when we got into our cars, we found a fortune cookie on our dash with a "thank you" message inside. It left me with such a nice feeling, showing the organizer's appreciation for all of us who want to support and spread the word about heart health.

In my next blog, I'll tell you about the free heart screenings being offered by Saint Thomas Heart. I went through the screening yesterday and it was a cinch. Only a tiny prick in the finger for a blood sample and you get results before you leave. If you want to schedule one, just call 269-4545.

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