Last year, I walked in memory of both of my grandpas ? Grandpa Glasper and Papa Polge.

This year, I walk for them, for Jay Bernhardt, for Barb Kellog ? and for every family who?s had their world turned upside down by heart disease.

My grandfather, William J. Glasper, passed away in 2005 at the age of 72. He was a U.S. Navy veteran, a hardworking father of eight, and the kind of man who built things ? with his hands, his heart, and his quiet strength. Whether it was his years as a general contractor or his time at Pokagon State Park, he showed up for his family, his church, and his community. His loss still echoes.

I also walk for my Papa, Louis G. Polge. Papa passed away in 2012 at the age of 92. A Navy veteran of World War II, he served proudly aboard the USS Midway. After his service, he worked as a grocer and later as an electronic technician with RCA Service Co., retiring in 1986. Known for his kindness, his smile, and his knack for fixing anything mechanical, Papa was the go-to problem solver for his brothers. He loved his summer camp, boating, fishing, gardening, woodworking, and dancing. While Alzheimer?s ultimately took him from us, heart disease was also part of his journey ? and another reason I walk.

This year, I?m also walking for Jay Bernhardt ? a member of my extended family and a man whose drive and generosity shaped everyone around him. Jay led JGB Enterprises with vision and tenacity, later dedicating himself to revitalizing his hometown. He passed away in July this year at 82, leaving behind a legacy of bold leadership, community impact, and fierce love for his family.

And I walk for Barb Kellogg ? who wasn?t related by blood but absolutely family. Barb had a heart as big as her hugs, always welcoming, never judgmental, and full of warmth. After suffering a heart attack, she was placed on hospice and passed peacefully in her sleep. I?m grateful she?s at peace ? and Barb, if you?re listening, please keep watching over my dad. Lord knows that man needs a full roster of guardian angels.

Heart disease has impacted my family in more ways than one. And that?s why I walk!

Did you know that 9 out of 10 people who suffer cardiac arrest outside a hospital don?t survive? In most cases, it?s because no one nearby knew how to perform CPR. That?s a problem we can solve ? and that?s what this walk helps fund.

I walk for Grandpa Glasper. I walk for Papa. I walk for Jay. I walk for Barb.

I walk to turn grief into action. To turn bystanders into lifesavers.

Help me reach my goal ? and help save lives.