George Town, Cayman Islands (16 November 2025) — The Cayman Heart Foundation (CHF) on Saturday, 15 November, proudly honoured a remarkable group of Heart Heroes and Heart Disease Survivors at its 2025 recognition event, celebrating the strength, courage and resilience of individuals and families whose journeys embody hope and perseverance.
This year’s honourees represent the very best of our community—survivors of life-threatening cardiac events, champions of congenital heart disease awareness, advocates, caregivers and families whose love and bravery have saved lives. Their stories remind us why the Foundation’s mission matters deeply.
“Our Heart Heroes and Survivors inspire us every day. We came together to celebrate strength, courage and resilience. We honoured those who have survived cardiac events, those who support loved ones through their cardiac journeys, and those who bravely share their stories to inspire and educate others. Their testimonies remind us why this work matters so deeply—and why our commitment to saving 100 lives across the Cayman Islands is so important,”
Andrew Vincent, Chairman, Cayman Heart Foundation.
2025 Heart Heroes & Heart Disease Survivors
Karol McField — Heart Disease Survivor
Born with pulmonary atresia and without a left pulmonary artery, Karol has endured 12 surgeries, including three open heart procedures and multiple stent placements. After open heart surgery in 2024 and two procedures on her vocal cords, she was walking again just 10 days later. Grateful for skilled clinicians and modern medicine, she plans to study dental hygiene in Florida before returning home to Cayman. Her perseverance and radiant spirit inspire us all.
Dora Samantha Dixon — Heart Disease Survivor
A normal morning in November 2022 became a fight for life as Dora suffered a stroke, a brain bleed, severe sepsis and infective endocarditis. She underwent open heart surgery at Health City Cayman Islands and later at Baptist Hospital Miami. Despite grave odds—and the loss of a toe due to complications—Dora made a remarkable recovery. Today she lives with renewed faith and gratitude, cherishing every moment with her family and grandchildren.
Ailian Evans — Congenital Heart Disease Awareness Champion
After the passing of her son Nolan from a congenital heart defect, Ailian transformed grief into action by founding Team Nolan and the Heart Warriors and Angels Beach Walk, supporting families and raising awareness. A CHF Director since 2019, she has helped raise more than CI$300,000 for the Paediatric Programme, providing essential medical equipment and critical financial assistance for families. Her leadership and compassion have strengthened CHF’s life-saving work across the Islands.
Glenton Morgan — Heart Disease Survivor
After years of deteriorating health due to rheumatic heart disease, Glenton received a life-saving heart transplant at the Cleveland Clinic on 3 March 2024. Following seven months of recovery overseas, he returned to Cayman stronger and full of gratitude. His story is a powerful testament to resilience and the life-changing gift of organ donation.
Dr Sukumar Thorenoor Kumaraswamy — Heart Hero
Tortuga Rum Company, in proud partnership with the Cayman Heart Foundation (CHF), presented the annual ‘Robert Hamaty Heart of the Community Award’ to Dr Sukumar Thorenoor Kumaraswamy. Through exceptional American Heart Association CPR, AED and First Aid training, Dr Sukumar has equipped physicians, nurses, carers and nannies with lifesaving skills of the highest standard. He has donated more than 500 volunteer hours and directed all proceeds to CHF. His selfless service and unwavering dedication make him a true Heart Hero.
Dr Joanna Kregiel — Heart Hero
A Consultant Cardiologist at the HSA with more than 25 years of experience, Dr Kregiel established the HSA’s 24 hour Cardiology Service, developed the Cardiology Clinic and the non invasive Cardiac Diagnostic Laboratory, and expanded cardiology outreach to the Sister Islands. Caring for 400 to 500 patients each month, she is guided by her philosophy: “Whatever you do, do it with passion.” Her leadership continues to save lives every day.
Sayuri Fonseka & Joel Ganeshan — Heart Heroes (in honour of Baby Caleb)
After months of bed rest and a challenging pregnancy, Sayuri and Joel welcomed Baby Caleb, who was later diagnosed with the rare genetic condition Wiskott Aldrich syndrome. When he suffered an intracranial brain bleed, they made the profoundly generous decision to donate his organs. Baby Caleb’s heart saved the life of a one-month-old infant, creating a legacy of hope that continues to shine. Sayuri and Joel now raise Caleb’s younger brother, Kyle, with love, strength and purpose. Baby Caleb is honoured as a Heart Hero whose gift continues to give life.
Chase Webb & Audrey Meghie — Heart Disease Survivor & Heart Hero
Born on 20 June 2016 with an AV canal defect and Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Chase Webb was not expected to live more than a few days or weeks. Nine years later, he continues to defy every expectation. Though he cannot yet walk or speak much, he communicates with immense joy, determination and presence.
At the centre of his journey is his grandmother, Audrey Meghie, who retired to care for him full time. She is his advocate, teacher and constant comfort, celebrating every victory and meeting every challenge at his side. Chase is a true Heart Disease Survivor. Audrey is his Heart Hero. Together, they show that love can move mountains and that miracles unfold every day.
The Cayman Heart Foundation thanks all honourees, supporters, healthcare professionals and families who make this work possible. Together, we continue advancing heart health, expanding education and training, and pursuing our goal of saving 100 lives across the Cayman Islands.
For more information about the Cayman Heart Foundation and the Saving 100 Lives initiative, please visit caymanheartfoundation.ky.
If you would like to nominate a Heart Hero or Heart Disease Survivor for future recognition, please email ************@*******************on.ky“>ke**********@*******************on.ky.
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