A generous community is helping to save lives after a record-setting effort by organizers of the 2017 Red, Set, Go! Heart Luncheon.

Hosted by the Olympic Medical Center Foundation and presented by the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe, the event raised a record $61,000 on Feb. 24, as more than 270 people gathered at the Vern Burton Community Center in Port Angeles to learn how to prevent heart disease.

Proceeds from the event go to purchase devices that give immediate feedback on the quality of compression and ventilator support during a Code Blue situation.

“Once again, we were able to raise money for something that will save lives,” event chairman Karen Rogers said.

“Because of our sponsors, 100 percent of all money raised at the luncheon itself will go toward the purchase of the new equipment,” foundation Executive Director Bruce Skinner said.

Speakers at the event included local cardiologist Dr. Kara Urnes, Dr. Fran Broyles of Swedish Medical Center, and Betsy Schulz, who delivered the annual heart disease “survivor” story.

The educational lunch also promotes that the key to eradicating heart disease is education.

“The purpose of our event is to inspire women to learn how to improve their heart health. Many women are surprised to learn that heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women,” Rogers said.

“We are still receiving donations toward the purchase of the compression devices,” said Skinner.

People interested in contributing, Skinner said, can contact the OMC Foundation office at 417-7144.