In February, Paul Sheehan was experiencing chest pains and sought care at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital's Emergency Department, where he learned he had a blockage in the left anterior descending artery – commonly known as a "widowmaker" heart attack.
Dr. Adib Chaus, interventional cardiologist, performed a percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA), a minimally invasive procedure that uses a balloon catheter to open the blood vessel and increase blood flow to the heart. A stent was then placed to keep the artery open.
Following the lifesaving procedure, Paul's recovery involved enrollment in the cardiac rehabilitation program, offering individualized treatment and exercise plans designed to help patients strengthen heart health and improve their overall quality of life. From exercise classes to educational sessions focused on movement, diet and stress reduction, Paul says the experience has been transformative.
"The cardiac rehab team is so helpful and really pushes us, knowing full well that it's for our own personal good," he says. "Because of them and Dr. Chaus, I'm on my way to living a better, healthier life."
As he moved through the program, Paul found himself wishing he could celebrate each of his fellow patients as they concluded their last session. As a volunteer on the Park Ridge emergency response team, he knew firefighters would often ring a bell at retirement ceremonies to mark their end of service. Drawing loosely from that tradition, he purchased a fire bell and had it customized to represent Advocate Health Care. The bell stand is inscribed with a message thanking the cardiac rehab team.
Since presenting the bell to the team, Paul has witnessed several patients ring the bell with enthusiasm and pride, "embodying the spirit behind the gift," he says. "As much as we've appreciated this journey, let's celebrate moving back to our lives."
Paul's final cardiac rehab session took place on Aug. 15, when he was able to ring the bell to commemorate his own completion of the program.
How you can help
Cardiovascular care at Advocate Lutheran General is supported by philanthropy. You can help patients like Paul by making a charitable gift or by supporting a hospital or program that's important to you.