Long Island Heart and Stroke Ball set for October 24

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The American Heart Association's Long Island Heart and Stroke Ball will be held on October 24 at the Garden City Hotel.

The event, which is supported by leaders in the regional business community, aims to combat and raise awareness of heart disease and stroke on Long Island.

“The Heart and Stroke Ball is an event that not only raises funds but also raises awareness about heart health for all Long Islanders,” said Christopher Palmer, managing partner at Cullen and Dykman, a Uniondale-based law firm, in the press release marking the American Heart Association's 100th anniversary.

Palmer is chairing the centennial celebration this year as the organization seeks to raise awareness of community health initiatives. “I am honored to lead this celebration during such an important milestone for the American Heart Association,” Palmer said.

The event comes at a time when cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death not only in the United States but also on Long Island, according to the American Heart Association. And the disease claims more lives than all types of cancer combined. But experts say the disease is preventable.

“The support and engagement of our community is critical to the association's mission,” Kathleen Stanley, executive director of Webster Bank and chair of the association's Long Island Board, said in the release. “The Heart and Stroke Ball is a testament to the incredible impact we can make when we combine our efforts.”

Sponsors include Mount Sinai South Nassau. Additional sponsors will be announced later.

This year, Cullen and Dykman is launching a sporting goods drive called “A Ball for All.” Sports balls will be collected in advance of the event and brought to the ball to be donated to communities in need. This initiative is designed to highlight the importance of physical activity for heart health and support underserved communities.

“The Heart and Stroke Ball is more than just a fundraiser – it's a celebration of life, resilience and the unwavering support of our leaders and community,” Tara Lee Schneider, executive director of the American Heart Association of Long Island, said in the press release. “We are so excited to come together again and continue our fight against heart disease and stroke.”