Chicago, IL – January 28, 2025 – Dr. Sheetal Patel, a fetal cardiologist at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital, was awarded the American Heart Association’s Leaders of Impact™ title for 2024. Her work focuses on promoting equal access to cardiovascular health in Chicago. Sadly, life expectancy varies by up to 30 years between neighborhoods like downtown Streeterville and the South Side Englewood. These disparities arise from deep-rooted social issues and inequities shaped by public policies and cultural norms.
Over several weeks, Dr. Patel joined a fundraising effort with six other Chicago professionals. By raising the most money and rallying her community, she earned the Leaders of Impact accolade. Earlier this month, Forbes featured her and other nominees in an article titled, “Pioneers of Progress in Heart Health,” highlighting their collective efforts.
This year, Chicago introduced the “Moment of Impact” event, celebrating local Leaders of Impact and promoting health equity. Dr. Patel and her family celebrated her success through a special livestreamed event from her home.
Samantha Netluch, a development director for the American Heart Association, praised Dr. Patel’s and the nominees’ efforts to improve CPR knowledge in Chicago. She noted that many residents lack vital health information, which is essential for making informed choices about their health.
Brittany Walsh, the executive director of the American Heart Association in Chicago, emphasized that accessible health information can be life-saving. “Our Leaders of Impact are helping to ensure that Chicagoans not only survive but thrive with the right resources,” she said. This is crucial given that heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death in the U.S.
Dr. Patel shared her commitment to caring for children with heart issues, highlighting that no child should suffer from heart defects. She expressed gratitude for the support she received in raising funds and awareness, which can empower Chicagoans and improve their chances for a healthier future.
For over a century, the American Heart Association has worked tirelessly to break down health barriers, fund pivotal research, and educate the public. In Chicago, their efforts focus on addressing social factors that limit CPR education, ensuring more people are prepared in emergencies. This year, the Heart of Chicago raised over $15,000 for CPR kits in schools. Moreover, the 2024 Leaders of Impact campaign raised more than $300,000 to promote health equity throughout the city, ranking Chicago as the third-largest Leaders of Impact campaign in the nation.
The Leaders of Impact initiative began on October 17 and ran through December 4, encouraging change and collaboration across many communities.
Other nominees from the Chicago area included:
- Amy Grace
- Michael Carpanzano
- Kadi Underwood
- Mary Mannucci
- Steven Shell
- Zach Gardner
To learn more about the Leaders of Impact initiative and see the full list of nominees, visit the American Heart Association’s website.
The American Heart Association is dedicated to fostering longer, healthier lives for everyone. Through partnerships and the work of millions of volunteers, they promote innovative research and advocate for public health. As they mark their 100th anniversary in 2024, they continue to champion health equity and provide vital resources to communities across the nation.
Check out this related article: Remembering Carol Downer: A Trailblazing Feminist Leader Championing Women’s Health Passes Away at 91
Source linkLeaders of Impact,Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital,Heart of Chicago,Leaders of Impact,Impact Campaigns
