By J1 Reporter Grace Tynan

The American Heart Association Ball has been a long-standing tradition for 100 years. This year’s Omaha Heart Ball took place on Saturday, Feb. 8, from 5 to 11 p.m. at the CHI Health Center in downtown Omaha. The event featured a variety of activities designed to engage and entertain guests throughout the night, while raising donations for the cause.

The evening began with a cocktail hour, allowing attendees to mingle and enjoy beverages.

“I thought it was a lot of people; everyone looked nice, dressed up, and was happy to be there,” said sophomore Kate Lampmann, an first-time attendee.

Following the cocktail hour, guests moved into the large ballroom, where they were assigned tables for the evening. The program officially commenced with a presentation of the four valves of the heart, led by emcees Quanecia Fraser and Bill Schammert. They are some of the anchors for KETV, one of Omaha’s local news stations. This year’s four values of the American Heart Association were equity, knowledge, discovery and advocacy. Four speakers shared their personal experiences, connecting each word to their journey with heart health.

“I thought the stories were very impactful, and I thought that it was brave of these people to advocate for heart health,” Lampmann said.

Shortly after the opening remarks, this year’s Heart and Stroke Ball chairs, Shelly and Gary Grote, past Marian parents, took the stage to express their gratitude for the association. They emphasized the significance of heart health awareness and emphasized that one in 100 children is born with a heart defect, which inspired them to chair the event.

Each year, the American Heart Association nominates a family that has been affected by heart conditions or a stroke. This year’s princess was Jaelyn Crook, whose doctor, pediatric cardiologist Dr. Christopher Curzon, spoke about her diagnosis of a complex congenital heart defect and her journey to overcoming it. Crook was also recognized for winning the P.E. Award at her school. Her parents were shocked when she received this award and shows how she is truly a fighter.

“I thought it was crazy and super sad. I am glad she is okay now. It was inspiring to see how this little girl could be so strong,” Lampmann said.

The evening continued with the “Raise the Paddle” donation segment, where attendees were encouraged to contribute to the cause. This year, a special $110 donation was introduced in honor of Princess Crook.

As the event neared its conclusion, Sweetheart Chair Lori Hogan introduced the 18 young women participating in the Sweetheart Program. Escorted by influential men in society, they took the stage, highlighting their achievements throughout the program. Among them were seven Marian students: freshman Charlie Drake, sophomore Lucy Peterson, juniors Grace Tynan and Ava Desmet, and seniors Nora Coffey, Lila Mouw and Cecilia Crotzer.

Reflecting on her experience, Lampmann said, “My favorite event was QLI. I liked being able to help those with a simple task that they could not do on their own.” QLI is a rehabilitation center in Omaha where participants could donate their time.

Junior Piper Albers, who was in the program last year, also shared her thoughts: “I loved volunteering in the community and helping raise heart disease awareness so that others can learn life-saving knowledge.”

The night wrapped up with a dance party and a photo booth session, providing a final opportunity for guests to celebrate and commemorate the evening.

As Albers said, “Being behind the scenes and helping out with the event was a different but still amazing experience. I got to see the amazing 2024-2025 Sweethearts get recognized for what they have done and the incredible leadership they have.”

The Omaha Heart Ball continues to be a place where many can open their hearts and show support for those affected by heart conditions. As the event’s motto states, “We live and fight for all.”