On Saturday, October 10, 2015 the American Heart Association, Dallas affiliate hosted the inaugural Collin County Heart Ball at the Hilton Granite Park Hotel in Plano,TX.

Photo credit: James Edward

Guests were treated to a full red carpet experience including a paparazzi ambush, an official step and repeat photo-op and a red carpet interview, where the only question asked was “What is your Why?”

With their “life is why” campaign, American Heart Association is sharing the message that “Everyone has a reason to live a healthier, longer life” and is asking people to give their why. (You can give yours here!)

Photo credit: James Edward

More than 200 guest shared their why, enjoyed live and silent auctions, food stations with fine wine pairings and dancing to a rocking performance by the Walton Stout Band.

The highlight of the evening featured a testimonial from a young lady whose life was saved at school by individuals using equipment and methods promoted by American Heart Association.

The inaugural Collin County Heart Ball raised more than $200,000 to go towards efforts to help individuals live healthier, longer lives.

About the Collin County Heart Ball:
The Collin County Heart Ball kicks off this annual event aimed at attracting 500 prominent, high net-worth individuals from the Collin County community, including corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, philanthropists and medical professionals. This year’s black tie event will have all the elegant touches the Heart Ball is known for – cocktail reception, a delicious dinner with fine wine, live and silent auctions, a special “mission moment” and live musical entertainment.

About the American Heart Association:
The American Heart Association is the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary health organization dedicated to building healthier lives free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. Our mission is to build healthier lives by preventing, treating and defeating these diseases – America’s No. 1 and No. 4 killers. We fund cutting-edge research, conduct lifesaving public and professional educational programs, and advocate to protect public health. To learn more or join us in helping all Americans, call 1-800-AHA-USA1 or visit heart.org.