The 2026 Heart Ball raised more than $260,000 to support the fight against the nation’s No. 1 killer, cardiovascular disease.
On Friday, Feb. 6, the 2026 CSRA Heart Ball brought together more than 200 community leaders, volunteers and survivors of cardiovascular disease to showcase how research discovery, advocacy, access and knowledge can make an impact and change health outcomes in the CSRA, according to a news release.
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.
“We are honored to host an event with such profound meaning and impact right here in the CSRA,”
said 2026 CSRA Heart Ball chair Will Schafer, owner of Master Automotive Group. “With the American
Heart Association projecting that more than six in 10 in the U.S. are likely to have some form of
cardiovascular disease by 2050, supporting its lifesaving mission has never been more critical. The
CSRA Heart Ball campaign is proof of what we can achieve when we come together for a healthier
future.”
The CSRA Heart Ball is a culmination of the year-round campaign to improve and save lives from heart
disease and stroke. It marks a moment in time 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.
The event highlighted stories from local heart disease survivors, lifesavers, researchers and
other community leaders, bringing the mission to life, the release continued.
Honorees included Open Your Heart honoree and local cardiac arrest survivor Christopher Highley; 2026 CSRA Heart Walk Chair Jennifer Baggett; local researcher Mona Elgazzaz; community advocate Stephanie Rouse; and Tyson Abrams, a congenital heart defect survivor and national youth ambassador for the Kids Heart Challenge.
“We are so thankful for our guests, sponsors and volunteers who made this event possible,” said
American Heart Association CSRA executive director Ansley Howze. “Through your support, theAmerican Heart Association is advancing lifesaving heart and brain health education, research and
advocacy across the CSRA. Together we are creating a stronger, healthier community for all.”
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