Over 110 people attended the inaugural "Sweetheart Swing" dinner and dance hosted by Hannibal Regional Hospital Foundation on Saturday evening, February 20, 2010. Various heart health activities throughout February, including the Sweetheart Swing, raised over $12,000 to benefit the Cardiology Services Patient Assistance Fund at Hannibal Regional Hospital Foundation.
"We are so thankful to those who supported our first Sweetheart Swing", commented Wendy Harrington, President/CEO, Hannibal Regional Hospital Foundation. "Their support of the event is in fact support of our cardiology patients as 100% of the event's proceeds benefit the Hannibal Regional Hospital Foundation Cardiology Services Patient Assistance Fund. This fund will assist in fostering the healing process of our community's cardiology patients in their time of need."
The dinner and dance, held at the Star Theater in Hannibal, was emceed by Curtis Burton, M.D., Chair of the Hannibal Regional Hospital Foundation Board of Directors and Ms. Harrington. A highlight of the evening was a vocal performance by the Hannibal Heartbeats, comprised of Hannibal Medical Campus professionals which included Mr. Dean Akerson, Phillip Foreman, M.D., Miss Lauren Youse, Mrs. Julie Leverenz, Mrs. Karmon Kindhart, and Mrs. Sarah Boleach. Entertainment was also provided by the renowned Gateway City Big Band, a 17-piece dance band from St. Louis.
During the event, the Foundation honored cardiology providers who give patient-centered care to patients from around the region. Honored were Pervez Alvi, M.D., Edward Ha, M.D., Mark Shima, M.D., Richard Valuck, M.D. and Lynn Shima, MS, RN, ACNP from the Cardiovascular Institute at Hannibal Regional Medical Group and Richard Ha, M.D. and Bassem Mikhail, M.D. from the Cardiology Department of Hannibal Clinic.
A silent auction and drawing were held during the evening, with winner Ms. Patty Hunold receiving a two night get-a-way to Casa de Loco Winery. Other activities included a dance-off competition where Dr. and Mrs. Tom Lemons of Palmyra won the evening's titles of King and Queen.
"It was a wonderful evening, with great entertainment and dancing, and we look forward to next year," added Ms. Harrington.
To make a donation to the Cardiology Services Patient Assistance Fund or learn about other donor opportunities through Hannibal Regional Hospital Foundation, visit hrhf.org or call (573) 629-3577.