Robert Gretton, 2012 Event Chair

The American Heart Association is proud to announce Robert Gretton, recently retired Banner Pharmacaps Chief Financial Officer, as the 2012 Guilford Heart Ball Chairman. The Guilford Heart Ball raises vital funds for heart disease and stroke research and prevention education. Heart disease is the number one killer of both men and women in the United States, accounting for nearly one third of all deaths in the country.  Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in the nation. Diseases of the heart are currently the second leading causes of death in Guilford County and Guilford County currently ranks third worst in cardiovascular disease deaths in N.C.
 

“Continuing to raise local funds here in the Triad for the AHA heart and stroke research programs should reduce these awful numbers and make lifesaving work possible,” shares Gretton. “Helping people achieve a healthier lifestyle through AHA education and wellness programs is also a proactive way to assist people in our community to live longer and stronger – making a healthier and more productive Guilford County.”

Mr. Gretton’s career has been in the pharmaceutical industry throughout, and he was a member of  Banner’s leadership team at their High Point global headquarters from January, 2000 until his retirement at the end of June.  Mr. Gretton has extensive international pharmaceutical industry experience in his resume and has worked for several major healthcare corporations. He was transferred to the United States from the UK in 1990 and he is a US citizen.  Mr. Gretton is a professional accountant, with qualifications as a Chartered Management Accountant in the UK. He is an active participant in local civic affairs, and is a member of the Greensboro Partnership Government Affairs committee, which has a leading role in developing local economic strategy and development. 

Robert’s wife, Linda Gretton, Ph.D. is Assistant Professor of Strategic Communication at High Point University.  The Grettons work in High Point and have lived in Greensboro for over 10 years.

A Message from Our CEO

Together we are changing the way the world thinks about health and life. We’re transforming attitudes and behaviors, so people everywhere can experience the best possible health–today and for the rest of their lives … from generation to generation. Through research, education and advocacy, we are making an extraordinary impact … changing and saving lives — reducing disease, disability and death. The work that we’re doing … that all of YOU are doing … is leading to real, lasting change.

While there is much work ahead, we are in this together — for the lives of those we love. Thank you again for your generous support and unwavering commitment to our mission. You are making an impact on your community, on our nation and on the world.

Warm regards,

Nancy Brown
Chief Executive Officer
American Heart Association