The annual event celebrates those who help support the association’s efforts to make an impact on the health of the community.
On Thursday, April 3, 2025, New Orleans Saints owner Gayle Benson was honored with the Chamber of Equity award at the American Heart Association’s Heart Ball at the Audubon Tea Room for her contributions to heart health and AED accessibility. Her generous donations of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) helped expand the “Nation of Lifesavers” across Louisiana.
Automated external defibrillators are portable, life-saving devices that are designed to treat individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. They automatically diagnose life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation, and deliver an electric shock to restore normal heart rhythm. AEDs are crucial in emergency situations, as their use can significantly increase the chances of survival when combined with early CPR. Benson donated devices to the New Orleans Recreation Department (NORD) and Jefferson Parish Recreation Department (JPRD), which includes 35 parks, 3 baseball fields, and 2 football facilities.
The Heart Ball celebrates hope and progress through all who support the American Heart Association’s efforts to make an impact on the health of the community. For more than 100 years, the American Heart Association has made bold moves to save lives and pioneer scientific discoveries. These efforts include scientific discovery, public policy change, equitable health for all, and education to equip community members to take control of their health.