Making It Happen... One Heart, One Community at a Time
Advancing Heart Failure Care in Rural and Underserved Communities
Our Story
Inspired by Homero Martinez, who dedicated his life to music, education, and community service, and by Rodney Lee Martinez, a tireless humanitarian leader, our foundation was born from a mission to bring hope and advanced care to those facing heart failure in rural communities along the Texas-Mexico border and across Texas.
Heart Failure in the United States
A Growing Crisis
Heart failure is a serious, progressive condition that affects millions of Americans. Today, over 6.7 million people in the U.S. live with heart failure — and this number is expected to surpass 8 million by 2030. In fact, about 1 in 4 people will develop heart failure during their lifetime.
The burden is even greater in rural and underserved communities, where people face significant barriers to specialized care. Studies show that residents in rural areas have a higher risk of dying from heart failure compared to those in cities, regardless of age.
Our foundation is committed to addressing these disparities, advocating for those who face not just the challenges of heart failure, but also the obstacles of limited access to advanced treatment and resources.
Heart Failure Society of America. (n.d.). HF Stats: Heart failure statistics.