About Heart Of A Giant Foundation
We aim to reduce heart disease by identifying and managing heart risk factors. Our mission focuses on enhancing early detection and support for high-risk individuals, empowering them to take control of their health.
Some Tough Truths About Heart Disease
Heart disease is the top cause of death in the US and worldwide, highlighting the urgency of our mission:
18 million+ people die from heart disease each year globally.
655,000+ people die from heart disease in the U.S. each year.
495,000+ people die each year from high blood pressure.
Despite these alarming figures, only about 49% of Americans are aware of their heart health status, underscoring the critical need for increased education and awareness.
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common heart condition that has been identified by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as a leading risk factor for heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and vascular dementia.
According to a recent study conducted by the Boston Public Health Commission, one out of every four adult residents in Boston reported having hypertension. The study also found that the percentage of hypertension was higher for Black (36%) and Latino (27%) adults compared to White adults (20%). Neighborhoods with predominantly Black people, such as Mattapan, Dorchester, or Roxbury, had hypertension rates ranging from 34% to 42%.
What We Do:
We envision a world where everyone can access care and information to prevent and manage heart disease.
We aim to support high-risk individuals in underserved communities with resources and education for better heart health.
Raise awareness of heart disease risk factors and symptoms.
Promote regular health check-ups, screening, and early diagnosis.
Provide culturally responsive education and services
Improve patient care adherence and strengthen relationships with providers.
Enable better access to care for improved health outcomes.
Our Journey
Heart of a Giant Foundation (HGF) was founded by Bouba, a heart failure patient and transplant survivor, with a mission to improve heart health awareness and management, particularly in at-risk and underserved communities. His personal journey through heart disease led him to address gaps in awareness and education, early detection, and support systems.
Mission and Vision
HGF is committed to:
- Raising awareness of heart disease risk factors.
- Providing education to empower health decisions.
- Supporting individuals and families through culturally responsive programs.
- Addressing social determinants of health.
- Fostering community resilience and empowerment.
Programs and Initiatives
HGF focuses on five main programs:
- Heart Disease Awareness: Community workshops and campaigns.
- Health Screening and Education: Health screenings and medical education.
- Living with Heart Disease Podcast: Sharing stories and health advice.
- Onsite Clinics: Access to medical services and monitoring.
- Hypertension Prevention for Mothers-to-be and Hypertensive and Heart Failure Patients: Using RPM technologies and health coaches.
Impact and Reach
In the last five years, HGF has impacted over 5,000 individuals through more than 275 events. In 2024, it reached over 1,500 people via 85+ events, aiming to serve 5,000 individuals annually.
Growth and Expansion
- HGF plans to expand into diabetes care,
- organize Community Health Summits,
- partner with healthcare providers, and
- leverage Remote Patient Monitoring to enhance patient outcomes.
Key Events and Milestones
- Boston Community Heart Walk: Raising awareness and uniting communities.
- Living with Heart Disease Podcast: Amplifying patient voices.
Upcoming Plans
In 2025, HGF will host its 2nd Annual Boston Community Heart Walk and the Boston Patient and Caregiver Day.
To continue to expand its heart health, diabetes and high cholesterol care programs.
Leadership and Philosophy
Guided by the philosophy of Ubuntu, HGF values solidarity, humility, gratitude, and resilience, aiming to build an impactful organization.
Challenges and Legacy
While facing funding and resource challenges, HGF’s resilience reflects Bouba’s journey, inspiring communities to come together for better health and wellbeing. HGF’s legacy is one of empowerment, connection, and collective progress.
