In the heart of California’s wine country where rolling vineyards and stunning vistas provide an idyllic backdrop, the Runway for Red luncheon emerged as a beacon of hope and philanthropy.
Held on May 31 at a private estate, this remarkable gathering united 150 extraordinary women, all committed to a common cause: transforming heart care in Napa Valley. Hosted by esteemed philanthropists and St. Helena Hospital Foundation Board Members Lauren Dickson and Elyse Walker, the sold-out event raised an incredible $1.2 million to support the creation of a new Cardiac Center of Excellence at St. Helena Hospital.
“Runway for Red is about hope, resilience, and the power of women coming together for something greater than ourselves,” said Dickson, who has a deeply personal connection to the cause. With her younger brother’s near-fatal A-fib episode and her father’s emergency heart surgeries shaping her advocacy, she has dedicated her efforts to improving access to cardiac care for all. “We are building a beacon of healing right here in Napa Valley—so no one has to face heart disease alone.”
As guests arrived, they were enveloped in an atmosphere of elegance and purpose. Picture yourself driving down an expansive driveway, flanked by lush maple trees, only to be welcomed by valet service and offered a refreshing glass of Champagne or an Aperol spritz. Friends gathered at the “Glam Squad” cabaña to have hair and makeup touch-ups by the Painted Ladies team while sipping Dom Perignon.
Jewelry design team Three Stories was present, selling their latest designs and offering on-site piercing. The afternoon unfolded with a stunning overwater runway show curated by Elyse Walker, a celebrated designer and retailer known for her keen eye in the fashion industry. The designs showcased not only the latest trends but also embodied a spirit of empowerment, reinforcing the luncheon’s mission.
The exquisite décor, crafted by Dickson with the help of friend Tara Crosby, set the stage for an unforgettable experience. Designer Erin Martin constructed a floral heart art piece, which was hung from the fairytale, ivy-covered silo. Guests lunched on a seasonal menu prepared by La Saison, complemented by enchanting floral arrangements from Miss Dee Designs by Lacey McDaniel.
To elevate the experience, Frank Family Vineyards and Trinchero Family Estates served as the primary wine sponsors, with additional support from fellow St. Helena Hospital Foundation board members and friends of the hospital, ensuring that every sip celebrated the region’s renowned wine culture.
The high-energy live auction and fund-a-need segment, led by Leslie Frank of Frank Family Vineyards and Glen Newhart, president of the St. Helena Hospital Foundation, were highlights of the day.
With inspiring stories and a powerful call to action, the auction ignited a spirit of generosity among attendees, further fueling the mission to enhance cardiac care. The event was amplified by live music from Lumos, sparkling wine toasts provided by Chandon, and the unmistakable energy of high fashion.
“I poured my heart into this event because I wanted guests to leave Runway For Red feeling that it was more than just another charity gathering. It was a truly special day where they could connect with both old friends and new acquaintances, uniting to achieve something really meaningful for our community together,” said Dickson.
“This event is a shining example of what happens when vision, passion, and community come together,” remarked Newhart. “Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we’re making a lasting investment in world class heart care for Napa Valley and beyond.”
The funds raised through Runway for Red will directly contribute to the new Cardiac Center of Excellence at St. Helena Hospital, which promises to revolutionize heart care in the region.
This state-of-the-art facility will feature an additional cardiac care unit with spacious private suites, allowing family members to stay overnight; the latest in cardiac imaging and surgical technology, designed for safer, more accurate treatments and faster recoveries; round-the-clock access to the North Bay region’s top cardiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, and A-fib experts; and an innovative approach to heart care, combining award-winning patient experience with the hospitality for which Napa Valley is renowned.
Crucially, thanks to the incredible generosity of Lauren and Roger Dickson, who underwrote all event costs, 100% of every dollar raised will support the development of the Cardiac Center of Excellence, ensuring that the community receives the best possible care.
In a world where heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S., the success of Runway for Red serves as a poignant reminder of the impact that community-driven initiatives can have on saving lives. With A-fib cases projected to double by 2030, the need for innovative solutions in cardiac care has never been more urgent.
To learn more about the initiative or to support this vital cause, visit www.shhfoundation.org or contact Senior Philanthropy Officer Julia Orr by phone at 707-963-6207 or email at Orrj01@ah.org.
Together, we can pave the way for a healthier future for Napa Valley and beyond, united by the belief that no one should face heart disease alone. It takes a family. Information for the May 30, 2026, Runway For Red benefitting Saint Helena Hospital Foundation is coming soon on RunwayNV.org.