‘LIFE IS WHY’

Words by Katherine Tweed

The Red River Valley Fire & Ice Heart Ball, an elegant evening of dinner, dancing, and silent and live auctions, celebrated the work of the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association.

“Life is Why” was the evening’s theme. Walls at the Holiday Inn ballroom had displays with photos and stories of our neighbors here in the valley who survived heart and stroke events.

The associations want people to experience more of life’s precious moments, encouraging a healthier future and longer lives. Better heart and brain health is their mission.

Jason Weisenburger, just weeks after his daughter was born, collapsed after running with a friend. The quick response of his running partner and the cardiac system means Weisenburger is alive to see his daughter Evelyn learn to crawl.

Stories of survival and quality of life for heart and stroke victims inspired the gathering.

Dr. Ziad Darkhabani, neurologist, and Ahren Dosch, stroke program coordinator, at Essentia Health received honors for their work.

Major sponsors for the evening were Essentia Health and Brite-Way Window Cleaning Inc.

More than $95,000 in contributions came from the generosity of the 358 guests who ate a heart-healthy meal and danced to the Front Fenders.