The Tribune

THE Heart Ball Committee is back and striving to save as many hearts of children as possible. Despite current economic challenges and imposing changes to the economy, the Heart Ball Committee recently met to plan their upcoming events. This group of dedicated volunteers give their time and efforts to raise funds to help repair the hearts of children. When committee members Zelia Bethell and Linda Lafleur, who also serves as treasurer, were asked why they do what they do, they replied as follows.

Mrs. Lafleur said: “I do it because it’s a charity I have become passionate about; it’s something I enjoy doing. I do it to assist the children. The reality is, this is the only avenue over 90 per cent of the children diagnosed with heart disease have to obtain heart repair.”

Mrs Bethell said: “I was taught all of my life that you should give back, as it is better to give than to receive. This was my parents’ motto. Additionally, being a nurse, I have a passion for people’s health. This cause is particularly dear to my heart because it is helping the future generations; we may be helping a future prime minister.”

The Heart Ball Committee is the fundraising arm of the Sir Victor Sassoon (Bahamas) Heart Foundation. It is a non-profit entity established in 1961 that helps to repair the hearts of children. The Heart Foundation works along with the Bahamas Heart Association to educate the public about heart care in hopes of preventing heart disease it in adults and children.

Heart care is not cheap. One surgery can cost over $100,000 dollars. As such, the Heart Ball Committee works feverishly to raise funds to save lives. They host two major fund raisers yearly – the annual Tea Party & Fashion Show and the annual Heart Ball. The Tea Party & Fashion Show is scheduled to be held at Government House, on Sunday, November 23.

The annual Heart Ball is scheduled to be held on Saturday, February 14, 2015 at Meli� Nassau Beach. These events are open to the public for a minimal donation.

When asked what guest can expect from these events, the committee’s public relations’ officer Ingrid Sears said: “Guests can look forward to an enhanced product offering. In terms of the Tea Party & Fashion Show, guests can expect a fun, enjoyable and entertaining time. The theme for this year’s Tea Party is a Victorian High Tea. Hats and gloves are encouraged. Of significance this year, Twinings has agreed to be the major tea provider to give us a truly Victorian High Tea feeling; plus there will be many vendors displaying their products.”

The committee is also seeking to enhance the annual Heart Ball experience. Much effort was put into hosting the 50th annual Heart Ball earlier this year, and the goal is to do no less for the 51st ball.

“As such, the Heart Ball Committee will build on what was done and offer guests something to write home about; more will be revealed in time,” Ms Sears said.

“Despite all the glitz and glam, we want people to remember, it is about the children. We would like to encourage corporate Bahamas and the general public to please lend us your support. Your support can mean the difference between life and death for a child.

“It can also help to relieve the stress parents and guardians face when their child is in dire need of heart care, but cannot afford it at this time.”

The public can assist the Heart Foundation in terms of donations – time, money, gifts – sponsorship, booklet advertisements, purchase of tickets for the events hosted by the Heart Ball Committee, media support and much more.

To find out more, call 327-0806 or visit sasssooheartfoundation.org.