60 Years of Being Here for Every Heartbeat
This year marks a remarkable milestone for the Irish Heart Foundation: 60 years of leading Ireland’s fight against cardiovascular disease. Since 1966, our mission has remained steadfast to be here for every heartbeat, to save lives and to prevent the heartbreak of avoidable heart disease, stroke and thrombosis.
As we honour this anniversary, we reflect on the extraordinary progress made, the lives touched, and the communities empowered. But we also look ahead with urgency. Too many lives in Ireland are still needlessly lost: today, approximately 16 people will have a heart attack and 20 others will suffer a stroke. Yet up to 80% of early heart disease and stroke are preventable.
Our mission, the mission that began 60 years ago, has never been more important.
A Visionary Beginning
The Irish Heart Foundation was established in 1966 at a time of major social and medical change in Ireland. With cardiovascular disease rising sharply, cardiologist Professor Risteard Mulcahy recognised that the country needed an independent, non-governmental organisation dedicated to prevention, awareness and patient support.
He brought together a small group of medical and community leaders who shared his conviction that heart disease was not just treatable — it was preventable.
From day one, our purpose was clear: to reduce premature death and disability from cardiovascular disease and to bring heart health into every community in Ireland.
Six Decades of Impact
Over the years, the Irish Heart Foundation has been at the forefront of public health change, driving national awareness, prevention and patient care.
❤️ Creating a Nation of Lifesavers
Delivering free CPR training through CPR 4 Schools and Hands for Life, empowering over 70,000 people with lifesaving skills.
❤️ Influencing National Policy
Successfully advocating for Ireland’s first National Stroke Strategy in 2022.
❤️ Championing Patients and Families
Establishing vital support services including the Nurse Support Line, the Young Stroke Survivor Network and Heart Connect for heart failure patients.
❤️ Bringing Heart Health Into Communities
Rolling out Mobile Health Units delivering 10,000 free health checks in 2025 alone.
Driving nationwide awareness campaigns such as the FAST stroke awareness campaign.
Together, these efforts have helped transform Ireland’s heart health and saved countless lives.
Looking Forward: A Future With Fewer Broken Hearts
As we celebrate 60 years, our ambition for the decades ahead is stronger than ever.
We are confronting a generational emergency in cardiovascular health, driven by new risk factors, lifestyle pressures and widening health inequalities.
Our commitment is simple:
To protect every heart.
To support every family.
To ensure a future where no life is cut short by preventable cardiovascular disease.
Join Us in Celebrating 60 Years — The K Club Anniversary Golf Classic
As part of our 60th anniversary celebrations, bookings are now open for the Irish Heart Foundation 60th Anniversary Golf Classic, taking place on Friday, 15th May 2026 at the K Club North Course.
Team entry: €2,500
Co-sponsorship opportunities available
Event details & booking: Click here
This landmark event is a special opportunity to support our mission in a memorable and impactful way.
Thank You for Being Part of Our Journey
Our achievements over the last 60 years have only been possible through the support of our partners, donors, volunteers and communities nationwide. As we reflect on this milestone, we extend our heartfelt thanks.
Together, we have made extraordinary progress and together, we will continue to protect and improve Ireland’s heart health for generations to come.
