Veronica De La Cruz Raises a Glass — and Dollars — For ‘Hope for Hearts’

By Chris Ariens 

NBC/MSNBC anchor Veronica De La Cruz’s “Hope for Hearts” foundation raised $8,000 at a New York fundraiser last week.

Nearly 150 guests from the media, entertainment, banking and other sectors packed the Vinatta Project in the Meatpacking District for the fundraiser. De La Cruz co-hosted the event with MSNBC colleagues Thomas Roberts and Richard Lui.

De La Cruz started the foundation in honor of her brother Eric De La Cruz who died in 2009 of severe cardiomyopathy while awaiting a heart transplant. De La Cruz was 27 years old.

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Much of the proceeds raised Tuesday will go to Kelly Salerno of Connecticut. Salaerno’s son Colby, 24, also suffers from cardiomyopathy and is awaiting a transplant.

“The people and companies who came together to donate money, items and their presence at this event have shown their strong support for Hope For Hearts’ work,” said De La Cruz. “We are overwhelmed and so appreciative of their assistance.”

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