Leadership announced for 2026 heart health events in the Lowcountry
December 9, 2025
American Heart Association announces chairs of 2026 campaigns
The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone, everywhere, announced the volunteer chairs who will lead four 2026 campaigns: Michael Scarafile, Anne Kroman, D.O., Ph.D., Hillary Blevins, and Keith Horton.
These leaders will guide efforts to raise critical funds and advance equitable health throughout the Lowcountry.
Event Date: February 28, 2026
The Lowcountry Heart walk brings the community together to create health and hope for every heartbeat. Every walker and every dollar donated means more people trained in CPR, more research, and more lifesaving moments for everyone.
“The Heart Walk is personal to me because my father is a heart disease survivor. I’m excited to work with other companies and community teams to make a difference in our community and in people’s lives,” said Scarafile.
Event Date: March 20, 2026
The Heart Ball campaign engages companies, community leaders, and individuals to make a lasting impact across the four chambers of the Heart Association’s work: discovery, advocacy, access, and knowledge. The campaign culminates in the Heart Ball – a powerful evening celebrating progress, highlighting mission, and supporting a vital fundraising effort.
“It is a great honor to serve as the Heart Ball chair,” said Dr. Kroman. “I look forward to working with the American Heart Association and our incredible volunteers to drive breakthroughs and implement proven solutions in science, policy, and care for healthier people and communities. Creating lasting impact takes all of us, and together, we can build a healthier future for every person in Charleston.”
Charleston Go Red for Women Luncheon
Event Date: May 21, 2026
Go Red for Women is the Heart Association’s signature women’s initiative, dedicated to raising awareness of cardiovascular disease as the leading cause of death in women. The luncheon brings together connection, education, and action to empower women to prioritize their health and well-being.
“As women, our days are packed, and life rarely slows down – but women’s health deserves attention now, not later,” said Blevins. “Women need to know that heart disease is our No. 1 killer and I am proud to work with an amazing group of volunteers on this campaign.”
Charleston Hard Hats with Heart
Event Date: October 2026
Hard Hats with Heart engages Charleston’s construction industry to improve cardiovascular health among workers by promoting prevention, well-being, and lifesaving skills. The campaign culminates with a networking celebration in October.
“Hard Hats with Heart is important to me because we can bring together the entire construction industry in Charleston for our workers’ safety and overall health,” said Horton. “Together, we can create safer working environments where healthy habits are adopted, where workers feel confident to perform CPR, and where more lives are saved.”
“We are so grateful to the Charleston leaders who have stepped up to lead our 2026 campaigns,” Katie Schumacher, executive director of the American Heart Association, Charleston. “Together, we are raising critical funds to advance lifesaving research, increase CPR education, and drive equitable health for all people in the Lowcountry.”
Learn more about local American Heart Association events at heart.org/SouthCarolina or contact [email protected].
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.
