Empowering Mahoning Valley: Year-Round Health Campaign Led by Local Changemakers

(YOUNGSTOWN) June 18, 2025 — In the U.S., someone dies of cardiovascular disease (CVD) every 34 seconds. It’s a scary statistic that highlights the importance of heart health. To combat this issue, Heart of Tri-County is launching the Heart Ball campaign, led by dedicated community members Christina Dascenzo, Pharm.D., and Cassie Hoyt.

Dr. Dascenzo is a board member for the American Heart Association in Northeast Ohio and works as a pharmacist. She returns to lead this campaign after a very successful 2024 Tri-County Heart Ball, which broke records for fundraising and attendance.

Cassie Hoyt, a perfusionist and a local children’s author, is joining her. Cassie has actively shared her survival story and has volunteered in different roles for the American Heart Association. Her personal experiences with heart surgery at age 15 and her family’s heart issues fuel her commitment.

"As a pharmacist, I talk to my patients about the importance of heart health,” Dr. Dascenzo shared. “Working with the American Heart Association allows me to spread vital knowledge in our community."

Cassie added, “I support the mission of the American Heart Association because of my own family experiences. Knowing the signs of a heart attack and advocating for CPR training can save lives."

The Heart Ball celebrates the efforts being made to improve community health. This includes funding scientific research, advocating for public policy changes, and offering education to help people take charge of their health.

Andrew Kluge, Senior Development Director for the American Heart Association in Northeast Ohio, praised both Dr. Dascenzo and Cassie for their dedication. “Their efforts are making a real difference in the Valley," he said.

The Tri-County Heart Ball is set for February 2026. This elegant, black-tie event will honor volunteers and survivors, share inspiring stories, and include dinner, dancing, and an auction. It’s all about strengthening heart health in Mahoning, Trumbull, and Columbiana counties.

A growing concern is the correlation between COVID-19 and heart health. Recent studies suggest that individuals recovering from the virus may have increased risks of cardiovascular issues. Awareness of these risks is essential, underscoring even further the importance of efforts like those of the American Heart Association.

For more information on the Tri-County Heart Ball, you can reach out to Andrew Kluge at Andrew.Kluge@heart.org.

The American Heart Association has been fighting for healthier lives for over a century. With millions of volunteers, they support ground-breaking research and advocate for public health. You can find more about their work at heart.org.

Source link

Christina Dascenzo,Family Drug and Village Pharmacies,Cassie Hoyt,Keystone Perfusion,Tri-County Heart Ball,Heart of Tri-County,Mahoning Valley,Youngstown