Page 18 - South Mississippi Living - February, 2026

COAST NOTE
story and photos courtesy of Mississippi Gulf Coast American Heart Association
Robert Ridgway
In 1999, Robert Ridgway’s life changed in an instant. A high school track athlete, Ridgway collapsed during a run—a moment that revealed a congenital heart defect and ultimately saved his life. Thanks to swift medical intervention and
open-heart surgery, Ridgway recovered and has lived a healthy, active life ever since.
Today, he’s not only a husband and father of two but also a passionate advocate for heart health. His connection to the cause deepened when one of his children was diagnosed with the
same condition, reinforcing the importance of awareness and lifesaving action.
Now serving as Vice President of Business Development at Yates Construction, Ridgway is channeling his gratitude into leadership as Chair of the Gulf Coast Heart Walk, happening September 26 at Jones Park in Gulfport. For Ridgway, this role is more than symbolic—it’s a mission to create a community of lifesavers.
Every year, more than 350,000 people suffer cardiac arrest outside of a hospital, and nearly 90 percent don’t survive. Immediate bystander CPR can double or even triple survival chances, yet most victims don’t receive it. Through the Heart Walk, the American Heart Association is working to change that by funding research, expanding CPR education, and driving equitable health for all.
“Cardiac arrest can strike anyone at any time, and the outcome often comes down to whether someone nearby knows what to
do,” Ridgway says. “We envision at least one person in every household feeling confident to perform CPR.”
The Heart Walk isn’t just an event, it’s an experience.
From interactive activities to an inspiring opening ceremony, participants will celebrate survivors, honor lives lost and take steps toward a healthier future. Every dollar raised helps
fund lifesaving research and CPR training, advancing the Association’s bold goal of doubling survival rates from out-of- hospital cardiac arrests by 2030.
Extraordinary things happen when people take action. Join Robert and the Gulf Coast community in creating health and hope for every heartbeat. Register today at www. gulfcoastheartwalk.org.
18 | February 2026 www.smliving.net | SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living