Parker wins the Live Fierce Award for American Heart Association

The American Heart Association’s Heart of the Tri-County Heart Ball was held on November 2, at Eastwood Event Centre. The Heart Ball raised over $196,000 to fund the fight against cardiovascular disease. The celebration is the culmination of the Association’s year-long work through the Heart of Tri-County campaign that is focused on funding research, education, and raising critical funds to support the lifesaving work of the organization.

During the celebration, the Association alongside Premier Bank, this year’s Live Fierce Sponsor, also recognized an individual who has made a significant impact on the Tri-County community.

Stroke survivor Amanda Parker was awarded the “Live Fierce Award”, for living a life of purpose in the face of adversity. Amanda suffered a stroke at the age of 28 and was left with physical disabilities, but that did not slow her down. She gave birth to two healthy children, and quickly realized she could help others who are battling the challenges of post-stroke disabilities. She began creating YouTube videos teaching other moms how to change or feed their child, while dealing with physical limitations. Recently, Amanda created a support group for other stroke survivors. Her hope is that the group can share experiences, exchange coping strategies, and find solace in each other’s triumphs. “I am honored to receive the American Heart Association Live Fierce Award, said Parker. “I hope I can inspire others to overcome obstacles and live life to the fullest, even with physical limitations.”

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A portion of the funds raised in the room during the Beat Goes on Ball will allow the Association to create blood pressure hubs in Mahoning County Library buildings to help community members recognize and address hypertension. High blood pressure is known as the silent killer because typically there are no symptoms. The condition is one of the most important risk factors for heart disease, heart failure and stroke. Over 29% of Tri-County residents have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and an estimated 25% more are unaware they have high blood pressure.

The dollars raised throughout the Heart of Tri-County campaign fund the mission of the American Heart Association to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives while supporting priority critical issues in the Tri-County Area including blood pressure programs, and Hands-Only CPR education and training all supporting the Association’s 2024 Health Equity Impact Goal, reducing barriers to healthcare access and quality.