Honoring
Benedict S. Maniscalco, MD
Our Immediate Past Chairman

Celebrating a Life Dedicated to Advancing Cardiovascular Care and Global Humanitarian Service

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our esteemed leader, colleague, and dear friend, Benedict S. Maniscalco, M.D., on November 27, 2024. Dr. Maniscalco’s lifelong dedication to cardiovascular medicine and his unwavering commitment to humanitarian service have left an indelible impact on both ForHearts Worldwide and the countless lives he touched across the globe.

A Legacy of Leadership in Medicine

Dr. Maniscalco’s illustrious medical career was marked by numerous achievements. He held leadership positions within the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association, served as a faculty member at the University of South Florida College of Medicine, and was the visionary founder of the St. Joseph’s Heart Institute in Tampa. His leadership in these esteemed organizations further demonstrated his passion for advancing cardiovascular care and improving the lives of patients worldwide.

Transforming ForHearts Worldwide

In 2003, Dr. Maniscalco became Chairman and CEO of Heartbeat International Foundation, later renamed ForHearts Worldwide. Under his leadership, the organization grew significantly, saving over 18,000 lives in more than 20 countries. He played a key role in forming partnerships with medical equipment manufacturers, expanding the volunteer network, and implementing operational policies. In 2022, Dr. Maniscalco led the rebranding to ForHearts Worldwide and launched the memorable domain ForHearts.org, establishing a strong digital foundation for increased visibility, expanded services, and continued fundraising success.

A Passion for Serving Others

For Dr. Maniscalco, meeting the patients and families impacted by ForHearts Worldwide was among the most meaningful moments of his tenure with the organization. He often spoke fondly of the gratitude he saw in the faces of strangers whose lives had been saved through the program. These encounters fueled his passion and reinforced his belief in our mission, serving as a continuous reminder of the profound difference our work makes. Dr. Maniscalco embodied our organization’s motto: “Service to others is the rent we pay for living on the Earth.” His dedication was recognized in 2019 when he received the inaugural Heart Rhythm Society’s Global Humanitarian Award.

A Devoted Family Man

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Maniscalco was a true family man who cherished his wife, children, and nine grandchildren. Mentor, leader, and dear friend to many within the ForHearts community, his passion for our mission and concern for others have left a lasting legacy.

Honoring His Legacy

Dr. Maniscalco leaves behind a powerful legacy of service and a challenge to us all: to continue the life-saving work of ForHearts Worldwide with the same dedication, kindness, and unwavering belief in the power of serving others. As we mourn his loss, let us also celebrate his life and the profound impact he had on our organization and the global community. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his family during this difficult time.