Many who know Nashville Scene editor Jim Ridley know him for his heart — how he pours himself into every issue of this paper, and has for well over two decades. How, through his own words and his guidance as our leader, he shares every week what it means to be and live in Nashville. Our readers, we hope, know him for his expertise as a reporter and a critic, for his judgment, for his ability to make us laugh or tug at our heartstrings along the way. Or for the enormous amount of love, empathy and honesty he shares with those lucky enough to cross his path. 

Jim Ridley's heart is huge, but it failed him this week. On Monday afternoon, while editing this very issue, he collapsed at the Nashville Scene's offices in the Gulch after suffering a cardiac event. 

Scene staffers sprang into action as best we could to help a man who is not only our leader, but our mentor, our confidant and our friend. The emergency response team was at our door in minutes. They included Capt. Jason Eubanks, Engineer Paul Uselton, Firefighter Steve Bailey, Firefighter/Paramedic Kevin West, Firefighter/Emergency Medical Training Advanced Randall Young, Paramedic Randall "Chad" Tidwell and EMTA Chris Andrews. To those professionals, we thank you for saving our boss's — our friend's — life.

Jim is now resting at St. Thomas Midtown. His family tells us they can feel the warmth of this city embrace them in these uncertain times. In fact, the outpouring has been so overwhelming that, as of press time, we and Jim's family must ask that those who care about Jim — and it's a long list, believe us — please refrain from calling the hospital to check up on him. We all appreciate the kindness you have shown Jim, but we need to give the medical professionals overseeing him the room they need to do their jobs.

For now, we ask that you send your positive energy, prayers and love to Jim and his family. Jim is the lifeblood of this paper, and his tireless work is what has made this publication special. He isn't simply the soul of the Nashville Scene, the heart beating at its center — Jim Ridley is the Nashville Scene. We appreciate your continued support as Jim begins his path toward recovery.

And Jim — we'll see you soon, captain.

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