University and hospital partner for heart health

KIRKSVILLE, Mo. (Nov. 1, 2008 ) – A.T. Still University and Northeast Regional Medical Center have partnered with the American Heart Association in the fight against heart disease as co-presenting sponsors of the 2008 Rhapsody in Red Heart Gala to be held November 8 at ATSU’s Connell Information Technologies Center, Blumenthal Clinical Osteopathic Skills Lab.

A red tie affair, the gala will bring together members of the community, local businesses, and heart survivors in support of the American Heart Association, with all proceeds benefitting the AHA. “This event is a great way to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular disease and stroke,” said American Heart Association Representative Rebecca Collier. “Cardiovascular disease and stroke are the number-one cause of death in America.”

The gala promises to be a fun and exciting celebration of life, with the evening’s events to include a silent and live auction, dinner, dancing, live music, and a tribute to local heart survivors. Lisa Archer, RN, BSN, quality improvement coordinator at NRMC and chair of the Rhapsody in Red Heart Gala executive committee, has been planning the inaugural event for more than a year. “It has been a labor of love,” Archer said, “and we are excited to present this event in honor of the survivors and to contribute what we can to the cause.”