Hollywood Heart

The 18th annual Greater Washington Region Heart Ball got glam with a Hollywood-themed gala honoring the life-saving work of American Heart Association staff and supporters.

THE PARTY Lights, Camera, Action! It was a night of heartfelt speeches and touching tributes as the American Heart Association’s DC chapter hosted its annual fundraiser at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, where guests were treated to a tinsel town-themed affair complete with a Marilyn Monroe impersonator and a photo op with the famed Hollywood sign.

THE PEOPLE Local medical, corporate and community leaders, who were introduced by 2016 Heart Ball Chair Rob Franklin, were honored throughout the evening, while others shared their experiences with the life-saving nonprofit. Jacques Rancourt, didn’t leave a dry eye in the house when he shared a story about his daughter, Lily Grace, who, thanks to AHA, had successful open-heart surgery after she was labeled “terminal” when her heart was discovered in the wrong position.

BEST IN SHOW Following the official ball, more than 500 guests danced into the night at the Heart After Dark post-party, where a live DJ and miniature desserts kept everyone going until 1AM. The fete raised more than $775,000 for AHA. Now that’s a nonprofit with heart! Photos by Tony Brown