Community members gathered at the Ambassador Banquet Center Friday night for the Erie Heart Ball, an annual event supporting the fight against heart disease.
The evening featured fundraising efforts, recognition of advocates and opportunities to learn more about heart health.
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Proceeds from the event helped support research, education and programs through the American Heart Association.
Organizers said the event is not only about fundraising, but also about raising awareness.
“Awareness is very important, for example, CPR. You know, knowing about that or having the AEDs, the defibrillators, at schools and public places; having that awareness saves lives,” said Francis Ferdinand, president of Erie’s AHA board of directors.
Organizers said these efforts improve access to resources and advance work aimed at preventing cardiovascular disease in communities across the region.
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