David Irizarry, CEO of Corpus Christi Medical Center, has been named chair of the 2026 Coastal Bend Heart Walk, leading a year-round effort with the American Heart Association to rally local companies, raise critical funds and expand cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) education across the Coastal Bend.
According to the American Heart Association, about 350,000 cardiac arrests happen outside hospitals each year in the United States and 90% are fatal. Immediate CPR can double or triple a person’s chance of survival.
The Heart Walk is the American Heart Association’s largest community-facing initiative. Through fundraising, education and corporate engagement, the campaign helps make CPR education and training more accessible, funds lifesaving research and supports healthier communities.
“Cardiac arrest can strike anyone at any time, and the outcome often comes down to whether someone nearby knows what to do,” Irizarry said. “We envision at least one person in every household feeling confident to perform CPR. By joining the Coastal Bend Heart Walk, employers can help ensure that when it matters most, their employees are prepared to act during a cardiac emergency.”
The American Heart Association reported in 2025 that confidence to perform CPR has increased from 33% to 39%, representing 17.7 million more Americans who feel confident to act in a lifesaving emergency. Still, most adults do not feel highly confident performing CPR, underscoring the need for continued education and awareness.
“While we’re extremely proud of the progress that’s been made over the last several years, our work is far from over,” said Dr. Osbert Blow, American Heart Association-Corpus Christi board chair. “Irizarry’s commitment to making the Coastal Bend a safer, stronger community is proof he is the right person for the role. We’re looking forward to seeing incredible results from this year’s Heart Walk campaign and hope the community will join us in making it a success.”
Corpus Christi Medical Center’s participation reflects its continued commitment to improving health and supporting lifesaving education throughout South Texas. The hospital system serves more than 150,000 community members each year across its Coastal Bend network.
The Coastal Bend Heart Walk will take place Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, at Whataburger Field. An estimated 3,500 participants are expected to walk in celebration of local survivors and lifesaving progress made in the Coastal Bend. To learn more or register, visit the Coastal Bend Heart Walk page.