Caring Connection | fall 2009

Passionate About Hearts:
NRMC Cardiac Rehab


Dean Lewis Heart Attack, 2002


Larry Black Heart Attack, 2003


Kay Westerhold Heart Surgery, 1993

With the assistance of the Cardiac Rehab program at NRMC, these three patients are working to stay heart-healthy.

Heart disease patients face many challenges. And the greatest, perhaps, is to make the necessary lifestyle changes to become healthy again. The risk for future heart problems can be greatly reduced by taking an active approach to healthy living. Nevada Regional Medical Center provides cardiac rehabilitation, where patients can learn to understand and manage heart disease with education, exercise and medical guidance.

Take Larry Black as an example (see photo, right). He suffered a heart attack and was originally given just three months to live. At the insistence of his wife, Doris, Larry began Cardiac Rehab at NRMC. That was over six years ago.

His heart functions at about 25 percent and his condition is inoperable, but his determination defies the odds. Cardiac Rehab Manager Kelly McLemore, R.N., says that Larry is one of her most dedicated patients. “He comes to exercise three times a week — without fail,” she says.

Staying fit is vital to recovery after a heart attack or surgery, but you may be hesitant about hitting the gym. With Cardiac Rehab, you’re monitored for safety and effectiveness during exercise. Research shows that the average cardiac mortality rate is 26 percent lower in exercise-trained rehab patients.

For more information about NRMC Cardiac Rehab, visit Performance Therapy on our website.