Our Mission



Our Process
How Just $585 Saves A Life


Supplemental fees are paid by Heartbeat International through the generous donations from people like you.
As a result, a $60,000.00 procedure is provided for $585.00. A life is saved. Through the love and generosity of the Heartbeat International network, this process has been repeated more than 16,000 times.
Through your generosity and compassion, it will be repeated thousands more.
Leadership
Since 2003, under the leadership of Tampa cardiologist Benedict S. Maniscalco, MD, our life saving mission has continued to grow.
The organization, which provides pacemakers and life-saving cardiac treatments to the underprivileged around the world, is just part of Dr. Maniscalco’s influential medical career. He has held leadership positions with the American College of Cardiology, taught at the University of South Florida School of Medicine and founded the pioneering St. Joseph’s Heart Institute.

History of Heartbeat
His efforts led to a reconnection with the former Chairman of Medicine at Baylor University, Dr. Henry Deane McIntosh. Also a founder of the first Florida Chapter of the American College of Cardiology, Dr. McIntosh came up with the idea of gifting used pacemakers to the cause. He invited Dr. Alfaro to a conference where he presented him with six used pacemakers, and a letter stating the pacemakers were gifts intended to save lives and further peace and understanding between countries.

Our People


Benedict S. Maniscalco, MD
President

Ariel Garcia
Vice President

Dr. Thomas Crawford
Medical Director

Dr. Federico G. Alfaro
Honorary Director

Dr. Joseph V. Messer
Chairperson

Sandra Kreul
Vice Chairperson

Jan Henderson
Treasurer

Peter Musaib-Ali
Director and Regional Distribution Center Manager

Laura DeLise
Executive Director

Michael Maniscalco
Director

David Katcher
Director
