The Tribune

THE 51st annual Heart Ball proved to be a smashing success, providing guests with an evening of glitz and glamour, while also fulfilling the purpose of raising funds to help children who need urgent heart care.

The event was held under the patronage of Governor General Dame Marguerite Pindling, Prime Minister Perry Christie and Bernadette Christie at the Meliá Nassau Beach Resort last Saturday

There were live performances by the S-G Band, the Ed Brice Orchestra, and the RBDF Dance Band, followed by music by Gary “Super” Johnson. Guests hit the dance floor the moment “I Will Survive” started playing. The host for the evening was Stacy Campbell-Marshall.

One of the highlights of ball was the presentation of the Lady Sassoon Golden Heart Award to A Bismark Coakley, who was honoured for the work he has done over the years with physically challenged children and for helping his fellow man.

The Lady Sassoon Golden Heart Award was initiated by the Sir Victor Sassoon (Bahamas) Heart Foundation to applaud and give recognition to individuals who have selflessly given of themselves to promote human welfare and dignity, thus making life better for their fellow men. In most cases, those persons go beyond the call of duty, working outside of their normal scope of work, to impact our nation’s social, educational, health and economic systems.

Additionally, the Salus Project sold artwork and donated 50 per cent of proceeds to the Heart Foundation.

According to Ingrid Sears, public relations officer for the Heart Ball Committee: “The 51st Annual Heart Ball was a great success.

“We are grateful to all who helped to make this event a great success.

“We would like to say a special ‘thank you’ to our patrons, sponsors, donors and all who helped to make this event a great success.

“Thank you very much. It is our hope and prayer that you will continue to lend your support.

“Your support makes a difference in saving a life and making the event a success.”

Ms Sears went on to say, “We recognise that many persons were unable to attend the event.

“As such, we would like to encourage those individuals to make donations to the Heart Foundation.

“As a non-profit entity, we rely heavily upon the generosity of others to help to repair the hearts of children.

“We accept donations throughout the year and no amount is ever too small. Every penny does count. Additionally, we’d like to encourage the public to support the remaining events that will be held throughout Heart Month - February.”

The annual Heart Ball is the major fundraiser for the Sir Victor Sassoon (Bahamas) Heart Foundation. The Heart Foundation is a non-profit entity, established in 1961, that helps to repair the hearts of children who cannot ordinarily afford heart care.

• To make donations or find out more about the Heart Foundation, call 327-0806 or e-mail sassoonheart@gmail.com.