Designed to raise funds and awareness for the Health First Heart Institute, the event includes an Escape to Disney's Grand Floridian Resort for a fine dining experience

Centered around the heart-healthy benefits of wine, the Grape Escape evens have raised funds and awareness for the Health First Heart Institute since debuting in 2001. This year's Grape Escape features an Escape to Disney's Grand Floridian Resort in Orlando where guests will enjoy fine dining at the highly acclaimed Citrico's Restaurant, from an award-winning menu prepared by Chef Phil Ponticelli. All proceeds from the evenings event will benefit the Health First Heart Institute.

Scheduled for Saturday, October 13, from 6 to 11 pm, the highlights of the Escape include a multiple-course meal in which each dish is paired with a specialty-selected wine from the restaurants extensive wine cellar. The event will also include a live auction of valuable wines, vacation packages, and fine art. Once again, Wesche Jewelers will design a one-of-a-kind piece exclusively for the auction. The Disney Grand Floridian is providing a special discounted rate for those who prefer to stay overnight. To receive this special rate, guests must call 407-824-1383 and mention the Health First Foundation/Grape Escape event.

Based at The Heart Center at Holmes Regional Medical Center, the Health First Heart Institute also includes heart diagnostic services and procedures at Cape Canaveral Hospital and Palm Bay Community Hospital. Funds raised from the Grape Escape event will support heart disease education and help ensure medical access to the underserved members of the community. Proceeds will also help fund the new 3-D imaging technology for improving cardiac diagnostic capabilities.

A volunteer committee, chaired by Myra Haley, is working with Health First Foundation to organize this years event. Grape Escape participants will also have an opportunity to also attend a special wine tasting party at Haley's home, with wines and food provided by Green Turtle Market in Indian Harbour Beach. Corporate sponsorships for the Grape Escape range from $1,000 at the Patron level to $25,000 at the Event level.

For more information about this year's Grape Escape events, call the Health First Foundation at 321-434-7140.