Social Entrepreneurs Recognized for Innovative Health Solutions by American Heart Association

The American Heart Association recognized two pioneering social entrepreneurs at its third annual Impact with Heart event for developing innovative health technologies that address critical healthcare challenges. Sober Sidekick and OxiWear received awards for their groundbreaking digital health solutions aimed at supporting vulnerable populations.

Sober Sidekick, founded by Chris Thompson, developed a digital health platform using an 'Empathy Algorithm' to provide peer support for individuals recovering from addiction. The platform has already supported over 341,000 people and received equity-based venture capital funding from the American Heart Association's Social Impact Funds.

OxiWear, founded by Shavini Fernando, created an FDA-approved medical wearable device that provides continuous, real-time oxygen monitoring and emergency alerts for individuals with pulmonary conditions. The device emerged from Fernando's personal experience with severe pulmonary hypertension.

These innovations address critical health disparities highlighted in the American Heart Association's 2025 Heart Disease & Stroke Statistics report, which indicates increasing health risk factors like obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes, particularly among underrepresented communities.

Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association, emphasized the organization's commitment to driving equitable health outcomes across all communities. The Impact with Heart event showcases entrepreneurial projects supported by the Association's Social Impact Funds and EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator.

The event, held at The Ailey Studios in New York City, featured CNBC Senior Personal Finance Correspondent Sharon Epperson as mistress of ceremonies and included a personal health journey presentation by Season 2 American Idol winner Ruben Studdard.

By strategically investing in innovative healthcare solutions, the American Heart Association aims to accelerate the development and adoption of breakthrough technologies that can improve health outcomes for marginalized populations. The Social Impact Funds, launched in 2018, support community-based solutions that reduce social and economic barriers to equitable healthcare.

The recognition of Sober Sidekick and OxiWear demonstrates the potential for entrepreneurial innovation to address complex health challenges and create meaningful change in healthcare accessibility and support.