Paul Rotkis Will Join 2026 Alaska Heart Run
The Anchorage resident will participate in the event at the Alaska Airlines Center on September 20, 2026.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Heart Disease
Anchorage resident Paul Rotkis will participate in the 2026 Alaska Heart Run and Walk on September 20, 2026. The event is held annually at the Alaska Airlines Center to support medical research, education, and CPR training.
Why it matters
The event raises vital funds for cardiovascular research and community-wide CPR training efforts. Participation highlights the importance of proactive health management through exercise, medication, and lifestyle adjustments.
Paul Rotkis, 59, has survived three heart attacks and two strokes over the past 21 years. During his second heart attack in May 2021, he survived cardiac arrest after staff at Providence Hospital performed CPR for more than 30 minutes.
The players
Paul Rotkis
He is a 59-year-old Anchorage resident who has survived multiple major cardiac events over two decades.
Providence Hospital
This medical facility provided emergency care, including prolonged CPR, during the subject's cardiac arrest.
The details
Rotkis maintains his health through a disciplined routine of exercise, diet, and strict medication adherence. He was previously medevacked to a hospital in Portland, Oregon, for specialized care following his cardiac events.
Timeline
May 2021: Rotkis suffered his second heart attack.
September 20, 2026: The Alaska Heart Run and Walk occurs.
The Big Picture
The Alaska Heart Run and Walk functions as a critical regional driver for the American Heart Association's community CPR training initiatives. By funding local education and research, the event aligns community-level participation with national standards for cardiac survival.
The event provides residents with direct access to educational resources regarding CPR and cardiac prevention. Participants can learn practical life-saving skills that are essential for responding to medical emergencies in the community.
The takeaway
Maintaining long-term cardiovascular health often requires a combination of clinical intervention and personal lifestyle discipline. Routine exercise and medication adherence remain foundational components for individuals recovering from major cardiac incidents.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts to combat Heart Disease in Alaska.
