Laurye and Wayne O'Meila commit $150,000 to Lee Health Heart Institute

FORT MYERS, Fla. - Feb. 20, 2025 - PRLog -- Inspired by a presentation on advanced cardiac care at last year's inaugural Grateful Hearts event, Laurye and Wayne O'Meila of Fort Myers have donated $50,000 to Lee Health Heart Institute and have further committed an additional $100,000 to support this year's event.

"We were incredibly impressed by the innovative programs and technology dedicated to improving heart care at Lee Health," said Wayne O'Meila. "It is our privilege to support these efforts and invest in the future of cardiac care."

Moved by the impact of Lee Health Heart Institute's work, Laurye O'Meila took her commitment a step further by joining the Lee Health Foundation Board of Trustees, helping to advance the mission of bringing exceptional healthcare to Southwest Florida. She also acts as a member of the Heart Advisory Committee, focused on raising funds and awareness for Lee Health Heart Institute.

The O'Meilas hosted the second annual Grateful Hearts event on Feb. 7 at St. Charles Yacht Club, bringing the two-year fundraising total to more than $489,000. The event featured presentations from esteemed cardiologists and a cardiothoracic surgeon, offering insights into Lee Health Heart Institute's mission to provide exceptional heart care in Southwest Florida and beyond.

"Along with delivering exceptional patient care, Lee Health Heart Institute is committed to pioneering new treatments that save lives," said Dr. Malissa Wood, chief physician executive at Lee Health Heart Institute. "Community support is vital in advancing our groundbreaking work, and we are incredibly grateful for this generous gift."

The O'Meilas' donations will remain in Southwest Florida, equipping Lee Health Heart Institute with the latest technology and resources to meet the growing needs of thousands of patients.

To learn more about supporting exceptional cardiac care in your community, visit LeeHealthFoundation.org/Heart.

About Lee Health Foundation

Lee Health Foundation raises philanthropic dollars on behalf of private nonprofit Lee Health to establish, expand and enhance innovative, lifesaving and preventative programs. The Foundation provides financial support for all five Lee Health hospitals including Golisano Children's Hospital and Lee Health Fort Myers, opening late 2027, as well as many service areas including Lee Health Cancer Institute, Lee Health Coconut Point, Lee Health Heart Institute, Lee Health Hospital at Home, Lee Health Musculoskeletal Institute, and Community Health Clinics. Over the last year, the Foundation has distributed more than $27 million to support Lee Health's mission. Please visit LeeHealthFoundation.org (http://www.leehealthfoundation.org/) or call 239-343-6950 for more information about the role of Lee Health philanthropy in Southwest Florida.