The Montgomery County American Heart Association Heart Ball featured a notable reunion between Ben Aguilar, a heart attack survivor, and Lupe Diaz, the nurse whose actions saved his life at St. Luke’s Health – The Woodlands Hospital. Aguilar was honored as the event’s featured survivor and recounted his experience from May 2023, when he suffered a heart attack in the hospital parking lot. Unable to reach the emergency department on his own, Aguilar was assisted by Diaz, whose quick response proved critical.
During the event, Diaz made an unannounced appearance on stage, surprising Aguilar and attendees. Jim Parisi, Hospital President at St. Luke’s Health – The Woodlands Hospital and Chair of the Heart Ball, commented on the significance of their reunion: “This was an incredibly powerful and emotional moment that truly captured the heart behind what we do,” said Parisi. “Lupe’s swift action saved Ben’s life, and witnessing their reunion was a testament to the real-life impact our nurses make every single day. Her dedication and expertise are a source of immense pride for the entire team at St. Luke’s Health-The Woodlands Hospital.”
Aguilar has consistently recognized Diaz for her support during his medical crisis. He recalled her words during his recovery: “You made it, you’re here, you’re going to be okay – we’ve got you.”
Diaz serves as an emergency department nurse across 19 facilities in Texas and holds advanced degrees in nursing and business administration while pursuing a PhD. She also teaches nursing students.
“Lupe consistently embodies excellence in clinical care, leadership, and education,” stated Daphne Ceron, BSN, RN, CCRN, CPAN and CommonSpirit Texas Market Manager of Nursing Operations. “Being recognized at this type of event is an extraordinary achievement and a powerful reflection of the level of excellence, clinical expertise, compassion in action, and the unwavering dedication of our nurses.”
The American Heart Association continues its work to raise awareness about heart disease through events like this one.
St. Luke’s Health–The Woodlands Hospital provides various medical services including heart care and neurology for North Harris and Montgomery counties with affiliations such as Baylor College of Medicine. It is part of CommonSpirit Health.
Chi Memorial Hospital Georgia is also part of CommonSpirit Health according to its official website. The hospital system includes three hospitals among its 65 care sites across Georgia (source). Chi Memorial has been recognized for quality care by leading organizations (source) and aims to enhance patient outcomes (source). Janelle Reilly serves as president (source).
The American Heart Association works globally with millions of volunteers to advance health initiatives related to cardiovascular disease.