Baking a Difference: The Story Behind the Bay Village Heart Cookie Fundraiser
Published Monday, February 3, 2025
A heartfelt family effort: From (L-R) Meagan, Alan, and Farren, working together to make the Bay Village Heart Cookie Fundraiser a success.
The Bay Village Heart Cookie Fundraiser was launched in 2021 by Alan Forbes and Gary Mack to honour their late friend Patty Hobbs, who sadly passed away from a heart attack in 2020. Patty's only symptom was neck pain, an often overlooked sign, especially in women. After losing Patty, Alan and Gary were determined to create something meaningful to raise awareness, particularly about the symptoms that can be harder to recognize in women.
What began as a small tribute, selling cookies to raise funds and spread awareness, has grown into a major community event. In just a few short years, the fundraiser has sold 17,765 cookies and raised $60,000. All proceeds go directly to the Northern Cardiac Fund, supporting crucial initiatives like the Cardiac Cath Lab, which provides life-saving care for heart patients.
Over the years, the event has expanded thanks to the efforts of Alan, Gary, and a growing number of volunteers. Every year, more people volunteer to bake, package, and sell cookies. This outpouring of support has made the fundraiser an annual tradition that brings people together, not just in memory of Patty, but for a cause that impacts everyone.
In 2023, Alan himself suffered a heart attack, adding even greater personal significance to the fundraiser. That experience deepened his commitment to continuing the fundraiser and spreading the message. For Alan, it's no longer just about honouring Patty, it has become a personal mission to raise awareness, save lives, and ensure that heart health is taken seriously.
This year's fundraiser will once again support the Northern Cardiac Fund, and Alan and his team are committed to making it bigger than ever. What started as a small tribute has become a meaningful way for the community to unite, honour a loved one, and support an important cause. The fundraiser's reach has even gone global – supporters have taken their cookies on trips around the world, sharing photos with Bay Village on social media.
Heading on a trip this February? We'd love to see where you take your heart cookie this month!