A night of elegance, generosity, and life-saving impact in support of the American Heart Association
Dallas, Texas — The Omni Dallas Hotel was transformed into a haven of heart and hospitality this spring as the American Heart Association’s Côtes du Coeur welcomed some of Dallas’ most philanthropic leaders for an evening of culinary brilliance, fine wine, and powerful storytelling. The sold-out gala raised critical funds to support the Association’s mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.
Led by dynamic chairs Jennifer and Chris Clark, the evening celebrated purpose and passion. From the stage, Chris Clark, Managing Partner at Forvis Mazars, shared, “The funds we raise tonight will make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Having spent my career working with health systems, I’ve seen firsthand how social factors—like access to nutritious food, stable housing, and reliable transportation—directly impact health outcomes. I’m proud to support the American Heart Association’s commitment to addressing these root causes and advancing equitable health for all across our community.” The Clark’s leadership, warmth, and vision elevated the event to new heights.
Guests enjoyed a five-course culinary experience generously curated by Dallas’ most celebrated chefs: Lead Executive Chef Richard Chamberlain of Chamberlain’s Steak and Fish, Chef Brendan Davy of Ellie’s at HALL Arts Hotel, Chef Mario Hernadez of Nuri Steakhouse, Chef Dan Landsberg of Circle T Ranch, Chef Janice Provost of Parigi, Chef Kent Rathbun of Rathbun’s Curbside BBQ, Chef Jason Rohan of Monarch, Chef John Tesar of Knife, and Chef Gerard Thompson of Rough Creek Lodge. Each course was paired with rare and remarkable wines from premier vineyards.
The emotional centerpiece of the evening was the story of the Rose family, featuring Heather Rose, a 36-year-old congenital heart disease survivor. Heather was born with five heart defects, and her parents were told by doctors that had she been born just three years earlier, she would have been a “blue baby” with little chance of survival. She underwent multiple open-heart surgeries in her early years before ultimately receiving a heart transplant in her mid-thirties. Today, Heather inspires others—especially parents of children born with heart defects—by showing what is possible thanks to research and medical advancements fueled by events like Côtes du Coeur. Her story is part of a powerful new reality: adults living with Congenital Heart Defects (CHD) now outnumber children living with CHD, a testament to the progress made through decades of innovation and support.
Mission supporters opened their hearts with raised paddles, answering the Clarks’ heartfelt call to give and adding significantly to the funds raised for this year’s campaign. The live auction brought excitement and generosity to new heights. Two standout packages included:
· “Cellar Secrets: A Wine Lover’s Dream” — a private dinner in a world-class wine cellar with rare vintages and a stay at Hôtel Swexan.
· “Mountain Bliss: A Park City Escape” — a luxury winter getaway for three couples, complete with 300,000 American Airlines miles.
From the stage, Fox 4 DFW’s Peyton Yager brought vibrant energy as emcee, adding a personal and local touch to the evening. She recognized several key volunteers whose leadership and dedication to the American Heart Association’s mission have made a lasting impact in North Texas. Honorees included Dr. Donald Wesson, Dr. Amit Khera, Meredith O’Neal, Scott Guillet, Mark Valentine, Jennifer Sanders, Jessica Bourne, Zee Hussain, Rick Allen, and Micah Kinser. Their contributions were celebrated as a powerful reminder that the mission of the American Heart Association is driven by passionate individuals working to create a healthier future for all.
This year’s event was made possible by generous sponsors including AT&T, Caliber, Dallas Southwest Osteopathic Physicians, and Forvis Mazars, along with countless community leaders and volunteers. Their support fuels the American Heart Association’s year-round work to advance cardiovascular research, community education, and equitable health for all.
Côtes du Coeur is more than a gala—it is a legacy of impact. The Clarks, whose leadership and generosity have left an indelible mark on this year’s success, will return as chairs for Grand Tasting the evening of April 24, 2026, followed by Côtes du Coeur 2026, set for April 25, 2026. To be part of one of Dallas’ most meaningful philanthropic traditions, contact Amy Motta at amy.motta@heart.org or visit dallaswineauction.com.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
