IRVINE, CA--(Marketwire - Nov 29, 2012) - Edwards Lifesciences Corporation (NYSE: [ EW ]), the global leader in the science of heart valves and hemodynamic monitoring, announced today that The Edwards Lifesciences Fund is expected to grant nearly $5 million to approximately 250 non-profit organizations around the world in 2012. Grant recipients were recognized today at the Fund's Awards Celebration of the 2012 grant cycle, held at Edwards' corporate headquarters. Since the Fund's inception in 2004, approximately $25 million in grants have been distributed.

"Helping people is a core part of Edwards' culture and we feel fortunate to be able to support the charitable efforts of so many outstanding non-profit organizations around the world," said Michael A. Mussallem, Edwards Lifesciences' chairman and CEO. "The heart-felt and impactful services that our philanthropic partners provide are impressive and we are proud that their work also inspires our employees to dedicate their time and resources to strengthen our global communities."

About Edwards Lifesciences and The Edwards Lifesciences Fund

Edwards Lifesciences is the global leader in the science of heart valves and hemodynamic monitoring. Driven by a passion to help patients, the company partners with clinicians to develop innovative technologies in the areas of structural heart disease and critical care monitoring that enable them to save and enhance lives. In 2004, the company established The Edwards Lifesciences Fund at the Vanguard Charitable Endowment Program to support advancements in knowledge and improvements in quality-of-life, focusing primarily upon cardiovascular disease and the communities where its employees live and work. The Fund's mission is fulfilled by making grants to qualified charitable organizations. Additional information about the company and its Fund can be found at [ www.edwards.com ].

Edwards, Edwards Lifesciences and the stylized E logo are trademarks of Edwards Lifesciences Corporation.