Celebrating International Women’s Day in Style
Around 80 guests attended a very special event marking International Women’s Day at the home of Carla Zampatti CEO Alex Schuman.
As well as hearing about the latest research into women and heart disease, our guests were treated to a preview of Carla Zampatti’s Autumn 2024 collection.
The event was overseen by MC Melissa Doyle who reminded us women are still under-represented in medical research, more likely to die after a heart attack than a man, and also less likely to receive life-saving CPR.
Alex Schuman spoke about his close relationship with the Institute which stretches back to when he was part of our Appeals Committee, and highlighted how his mother had supported the Institute for many years.
Guests also heard from Jen O’Neill who shared how she has survived three spontaneous coronary artery dissections or SCAD heart attacks.
Jen was just 36 with an 11-month-old baby and a three-year-old toddler, when she had her first SCAD in 2016. She told the audience that she had no family history of heart disease or any risk factors and that they should always listen to their body if they have any concerns about their health.
Jen was joined on stage by the Institute’s Executive Director Professor Jason Kovacic who explained how SCAD used to be regularly misdiagnosed and that it was only in recent years that patients like Jen were being treated appropriately.
Professor Kovacic also revealed how the Institute is undertaking world-leading research into SCAD and has helped identify the key genes associated with the disease.
An auction was also held with incredible prizes donated by Bells at Killcare Boutique Hotel, Restaurant and Spa, Catalina Rose Bay, Dachshund Limousines, Carla Zampatti, Becker Minty, Mark the Florist and Pommery.
Special mention must also go to the entire Carla Zampatti team who ensured the event was flawless, the label’s creative director Karlie Ungar for her beautiful collection and to Alex Schuman for opening up his home with views overlooking Sydney Harbour.
And of course, a huge thank you to all our guests.
Special thanks to our generous event supporters
Acknowledgement of Country
The Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute acknowledges Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
