Heart survivor Barry “Coach” Hinson to inspire community at the 2026 Tulsa Heart Walk
TULSA, Feb. 19, 2026 — When longtime coach and Oklahoma State University Associate Athletic Director Barry “Coach” Hinson walked into a routine coronary artery calcium screening last year, he felt like “the healthiest 64‑year‑old alive.” He had no symptoms, no warning signs and no reason to believe what doctors would soon tell him: his heart was in severe danger, and he was lucky to be standing.
Today, just months removed from quintuple bypass surgery, Hinson is using his experience to lead others toward prevention, early detection and renewed purpose. He will be recognized as the featured survivor storyteller at the 2026 Tulsa Heart Walk, set for Saturday, April 11, at ONEOK Field. The event opens at 8 a.m. and the walk starts at 10 a.m. with one and three-mile routes.
Heart disease runs deep in Hinson’s family. His great‑grandfather, grandfather and father all died of heart attacks. Still, nothing prepared him for the results of his heart catheterization last fall: an astonishing series of blockages, including a 90% blockage in his widow‑maker artery.
“It was everywhere,” Hinson said. “The doctor looked at my wife and said, ‘It is a miracle this guy is alive.’”
Within minutes, he learned that 11 stents would not be possible. Only one option remained: quintuple bypass surgery.
But the operation couldn’t happen right away. Medications from his past required a 14‑day waiting period — two weeks he describes as the longest of his life.
“I wasn’t afraid of dying,” he said. “I was afraid of what I would miss. My wife. My daughters. My grandkids. My friends. I kept thinking, ‘I’m not finished.’”
Hinson’s story didn’t end in the operating room. It ignited something. He wants to share his message of health with Tulsa, and for every family touched by heart disease.
Hinson’s journey reflects what the American Heart Association emphasizes through its Heart Walk movement: early detection saves lives, and conversations about risk can’t wait.
“We’re honored to share Barry’s story with the community,” said Megan Korn, executive director of the American Heart Association-Tulsa. “He is living proof that screening, awareness and prevention change lives — and that taking action today can mean more tomorrows with the people you love.”
In addition to raising critical funds, the Tulsa Heart Walk brings together heart disease and stroke survivors, participants from dozens of local companies and other community members to learn Hands-Only CPR and build a community of lifesavers.
“The Heart Walk shows what Tulsa can do together,” said Korn. “By supporting this year-round movement, we’re not just raising funds — we’re equipping more people with lifesaving skills and helping make Tulsa a stronger, healthier place. Our vision is for every home to be ready to respond to a cardiac emergency, and we’re grateful to everyone who helped us take a big step toward that goal.”
The walk is supported by Boeing with media support from Mix 96.5/KRMG and Fox 23.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than a hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries
Cyd King: cyd.king@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
