Heart of Tulsa Leadership

Building on a century of lifesaving progress in cardiovascular disease and stroke, the American Heart Association has centered a new vision for its next 100 years: Advancing health and hope for everyone, everywhere.

To achieve this vision by 2028, the American Heart Association will drive breakthroughs and implement proven solutions in science, policy and care for healthier people and communities. The greatest discoveries in health must reach people where they are.

Every person means working with every community and that is why our Executive Leadership is so important. The Heart of Tulsa Campaign is a catalyst for this work.

2026 Heart of Tulsa Co-Chairpersons

Faith & David Helmerich

Executive Leadership Team

Amanda Adwon
Adwon Properties, Inc.

Luke Bryant
Adwon Properties, Inc.

Heather Buffington

Dr. Heather Cha
Tulsa Heart Specialists

Grant Clary
Capital Advisors, Inc.

Karissa Cottom
Williams

Jason Decker
Rose Rock Capital

Michael Elder
JPMorgan Chase

Jenny Helmerich

Jono Helmerich

Sam Littlefield
Littlefield Agency

Chad McLain
Graves McLain Injury Lawyers

A heartbeat of hope: Parker Lee Helmerich to be honored at 2026 Tulsa Heart Ball
A family's faith and a toddler's triumph over impossible odds converge in inspirational story.

The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, has named Parker Lee Helmerich as the 2026 Open Your Heart Survivor for the Tulsa Heart Ball. The ball, set for Feb. 27, coincides with American Heart Month, a time the organization sets aside to raise awareness and support for cardiovascular health.

Parker’s story is one of extraordinary resilience. Diagnosed with pulmonary stenosis and coronary sinusoids immediately after birth, Parker underwent a series of life-saving procedures, including open-heart surgery and ultimately a heart transplant. His journey included 346 days in the hospital, 34 minutes of CPR, time on ECMO, and a stroke — all before his second birthday.

“Parker is a living miracle,” said Kennady Irwin, development director for the Tulsa Heart Ball. “His story is a testament to the power of medical innovation, the dedication of care teams, and the hope that organizations like the American Heart Association make possible.”

The Heart Ball will feature Parker’s story through a special video presentation and program tribute, highlighting his courage and the impact of donor-supported research. Guests will hear how Parker’s family coined the phrase “Just Keep Swimming” — inspired by a bead shaped like a fish from the hospital’s Beads of Courage program — to symbolize his upstream battle and unwavering spirit.

Parker’s parents, David and Faith Helmerich, are co-chairpersons of the 2026 ball and say they hope Parker’s story inspires others to keep going, even in the face of unimaginable challenges.

“There were days we didn’t know if Parker would make it,” said mom Faith. “But with faith, expert care and Parker’s determination, he did.”

Now thriving at home, Parker is off oxygen, eating by mouth, and working on walking. He loves music, animal sounds, and brings joy to everyone he meets.

“Our family is deeply honored by this recognition. It’s a reflection of the values my father lives by — integrity, generosity and a commitment to making life better for others,” said David Helmerich. “We’re proud to carry those values forward.”

The Helmerich family is widely known for its legacy of philanthropy, civic leadership, and business innovation — particularly in the oil and energy sectors.

The Tulsa Heart Ball brings together community leaders, medical professionals and advocates to support the Association’s mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Funds raised help fuel research, education and outreach that make survival stories like Parker’s possible.