News and Stories from the American Heart Association

an illustration of a human heart being examined by scientists

Heart Association highlights 2025’s major research findings

Scientific advances could help fill gaps in preventing and managing high blood pressure, stroke, heart failure, dangerous blood clots and more.
Dr Edward Cooper

Dr. Edward Cooper, pioneering Heart Association president, dies at 99

From pioneering stroke research to championing diversity in medicine, Dr. Edward Cooper’s legacy endures. The American Heart Association honors the inspiring dedication of its first Black president.

Ralph Edwards (left), host of the radio show "Truth or Consequences," presents the check from The Walking Man contest to American Heart Association President Dr. Arlie R. Barnes in 1948. (American Heart Association archives)

What Actually Happened

You may have heard a misconception that Procter & Gamble gave the American Heart Association $1.5 million - the equivalent of more than $20 million today - in 1948. That's actually false.

Cass Wheeler was driven to improve the American Heart Association because he knew it meant improving and extending lives across the country and around the world. (Photo courtesy of the Wheeler family)

American Heart Association's visionary, transformative CEO dies at 84

Cass Wheeler saw his calling as helping others. He did so throughout his 35 years with the American Heart Association, the last 10 spent as CEO.