Matters of the heart

Children's Heartlink Gala
New Delhi is more than 7,000 miles from the Twin Cities. But the two communities seemed much closer during the 2010 Children's HeartLink India-themed gala. The international organization, now in its 40th year, works to serve the medical needs of children through partnerships in developing countries.

"It's our annual celebration of the good work in the world, with medical volunteers," said Elizabeth Perlich Sweeney, president of Children's HeartLink.

There was proof of the program's success in special guest Srilatha Danampally. The 5-year-old had a hole in her heart that was repaired with a new device produced in Minnesota.

While a bit overwhelmed by her long trip, Srilatha said through a translator that she "liked it in Minnesota."

Also visiting from India was Dr. K.S. Murthy, who performed Srilatha's surgery. He didn't need an interpreter to understand how his patient felt. "She's here with a smiling face," he said.

There wasn't a red carpet at the Spirit of the Heart Gala, but actress Marilu Henner brought a touch of Hollywood glamour to the 28th annual event.

At the benefit for the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation, the actress and author spoke about her passion for a heart-healthy lifestyle. Henner explained how her father was a victim of heart disease and how, after both her parents died, she took charge of her eating and lost 54 pounds. "I decided instead of eating my feelings, I'm going to eat up information," she said.

"You only have one body," she said. "If you don't take care of it, where will you live?"

Sara Glassman • 612-673-7177