By AFRO Staff
Open My Heart Foundation’s recently honored heart and stroke survivors at the 8th Annual Red Dress Gala. The event was held at Martin’s Crosswinds on Saturday, Feb. 18th. The organization, founded by Florence Champagne, works year round to positively impact heart health disparities in the Black community via advocacy, support groups, and fitness sessions that include yoga and time with personal trainers. The Open My Heart Foundation also financially helps residents with co-pay assistance. The Red Dress Gala is a time to celebrate heart health advocates and medical professionals who are making strides against heart disease.
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Members and honorees of the Open My Heart Foundation’s 8th Annual Red Dress Gala celebrate at Martin’s Crosswinds in Greenbelt, Md. (Photos by Patricia McDougall) -
Awardees Celina Gorre, Dr. Dee Butler, Rhonda Monroe, Florence Champagne, Trudy Hendrix, Delayna Watkins, (seated) Mariam Bell and Mary Strum (Photos by Patricia McDougall) -
Candice Camille, past honoree, enjoys the gala. (Photos by Patricia McDougall) -
Dr. Renee Allen, honorary board member of the Open My Heart Foundation, speaks to those gathered at the Red Dress Gala. (Photos by Patricia McDougall) -
Maysa Leak, celebrity artist performs live at the Red Dress Gala. (Photos by Patricia McDougall) -
Dr. Sandra Crewe, dean of the Howard University School of Social Work and vice chair emeritus, speaks at the Red Dress Gala. (Photos by Patricia McDougall) -
Florence Champagne is personally tied to her work. The CEO and founder of Open My Heart Foundation suffered a heart attack in March 2012, giving her a different perspective on the fight against heart disease. (Photos by Patricia McDougall)
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