A large crowd attended the third annual Sweetheart Swing dinner and dance hosted by Hannibal Regional Hospital Foundation on Saturday evening, February 18. Various heart health activities throughout February, including the Sweetheart Swing, raised nearly $9,000 to benefit the Hannibal Regional Hospital Foundation’s Cardiology Services Patient Assistance Fund.

"We are so thankful to those who supported our 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 was held at the Quality Inn in Hannibal, with guests enjoying a meal and the lively sounds of the Gateway City Big Band of St. Louis. A highlight of the evening was a vocal performance by the Hannibal Heartbeats, comprised of Hannibal Medical Campus professionals which included Mrs. Linda Dinges, Mrs. Grace Keith, Mrs. Carol Wilhoit, Mrs. Julie Leverenz, Mrs. Becky Evans, Mrs. Sherri Robison, and Mrs. Sarah Boleach.

A drawing was held during the evening, with winner Bill Northcutt, New London, Missouri receiving a Romantic Getaway. Other activities included a dance-off competition where the inaugural King and Queen, Dr. and Mrs. Tom Lemons of Palmyra crowned the 2012 King and Queen, Mr. Bob Clelland and Ms. Dollye Frame of Quincy, Illinois.

"It was a wonderful evening, with great entertainment and dancing, and we look forward to next year," added Wendy 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.