2025 Upstate Heart Ball unites community to create a world of longer, healthier lives
June 25, 2025
American Heart Association annual event raises support to fight heart disease and stroke in the Upstate
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S., and new published projections from the American Heart Association show a troubling rise ahead. An aging, more diverse population, along with a significant increase in heart disease and stroke risk factors among younger people are expected to nearly triple the nation’s price tag on cardiovascular disease (CVD) by 2050.
In the face of this growing challenge, the 2025 Upstate Heart Ball brought together nearly 300 local leaders, survivors, and advocates at the Greenville Convention Center to raise critical support and awareness. The funds raised will help fuel the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association, which has been advancing health and hope for everyone, everywhere for more than 100 years.
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“We’re incredibly proud of the difference the Heart Ball makes in our community,” said Katie Harrison, who served as host and volunteer chairperson for the 2025 Upstate Heart Ball with her husband, Chris. “This event is more than a celebration—it’s a reminder of the power we have when we unite for a cause that touches so many lives. With heart disease still the leading health threat, it’s more important than ever to champion the American Heart Association’s lifesaving work in research, education, and advocacy. Together, we’re building a future free from heart disease and stroke.”
The Upstate Heart Ball is the culmination of the Heart of the Upstate campaign, a year-round initiative to improve and save lives affected by heart disease and stroke. The evening honored and celebrated the progress being made through groundbreaking research, advancements in equitable health, advocacy efforts, and equipping communities with lifesaving knowledge.
Nearly 300 local guests united to hear stories of heart disease survivors, celebrate scientific discovery and lifesaving advocacy, and give generously to support the American Heart Association’s mission. Attendees met several Upstate community members—including seven local volunteers and the 2025 Little Heart Honoree, Monroe Reese—whose journeys embodied the mission of the American Heart Association in deeply personal ways.
“We are incredibly thankful to everyone whose support has made this year such a tremendous success,” said Megan Ramsey, executive director of the American Heart Association in the Upstate. “The generosity of this community fuels our mission to fight heart disease and stroke, and helps us advance health and hope for all in the Upstate. Together, we can continue building a community where every person has the opportunity to live a longer, healthier life.”
The American Heart Association is the world’s leading nonprofit organization dedicated to heart and brain health. For more information on how to support the American Heart Association visit heart.org/southcarolina.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, on Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
