Morning TV Superstar and a Crowd of Houston Power Women Raise $1.1 Million by Going Red: It’s a Rare Midday Record Breaker

What: American Heart Association “Go Red for Women” luncheon

Where: Hilton Americas-Post Oak Hotel

PC Moment: Thirteen turned out to be a propitious number for the annual event that focuses attention on heart disease and stroke among women. Not only did the American Heart Association enjoy a record turnout but the event also raised a whopping $1.1 million ($130,000 more than last year), not an easy task for a midday fundraiser.

Former Good Morning America host and best-selling author Joan Lunden headlined the event and as she looked out over the audience to share her health journey, she saw a sea of red as the majority of participants donned the color of the day. Joining her in the spotlight was Kelly Nieto, who emphasized the importance of being your own health care advocate, via her story of persistence with medical specialists that ultimately led to determination of a dangerous heart disorder that ran in her family and treatment.

The ballroom foyer was chock-a-block with diversions including makeup touch-ups by Dior, an opportunity to ride a CycleBar, and to take Go Red selfies at the photo booth. At the event’s mission-related stations guests could learn hands-only CPR and were given warnings about the signs and symptoms of a stroke.

Chairs: Vicki and John Crum, emcees Gina Gaston and Ilona Carson, Texas Medical Center CEO Bill McKeon, Open Your Heart chair Myrtle Jones, Dr. Monica Patel, Roz Pactor, Liz Ghrist, Hallie Vanderhider, Sneha Merchant, Rama Barazi, Leila Gilbert, Beth Wolff, Liz Jameson, Mary Ann Wilkins, and Keri and Kevin Black.