Robert
Expert help from the North Shore Cardiovascular Education Centre meant a swifter recovery.
After his second open-heart surgery, Robert* was able to assess the impact of the Centre's rehabilitation program – a service supported by the North Shore Heart Research Foundation.
* Names have been changed
Blocked arteries
When his employer sent him for an annual check-up, Robert learnt that he had three heart blockages. There was more bad news – one of the blockages was at an arterial junction. It wasn't possible to insert a stent (a small device that opens up the artery): he had to have open-heart surgery. Robert knew what he was in for.
'In 1986 I had open-heart surgery to replace a valve. It's not something you look forward to, I can tell you.'
Using the Cardiovascular Education Centre
After the first operation, he didn't fully use the Centre's services. But the next time around he did. 'It helped me get back on my feet a lot quicker than I would have otherwise. I'm sure it's a significant part of why I feel as well as I do today.'
Education and rehabilitation
Robert attended classes on topics that range from understanding medications to emotional issues and returning to work. He also had two sessions with a nutritionist. 'She was just fantastic. I thought I was good knowledge-wise, but you don't know it all. The staff were very committed and very encouraging. You feel you're being supported – we're all in this together,' he said.
Exercise
Robert really came into his own with the exercise program. He admits he was apprehensive, so soon after his operation. 'But they start you off very slowly, and by the time you get out of there it's a 'dancing in the streets' kind of thing. It's fantastic.'
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Directly helping thousands
Robert's experience is shared by many others every year – heart patients whose lives have been greatly enhanced by attending the North Shore Cardiovascular Centre.
The only way the Centre can continue to deliver its effective programs is through your support. Whatever you donate to the North Shore Heart Research Foundation, the value will be multiplied many times as we use it to help people like Robert.
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