While our focus on heart health does not come to an end just because February is, we are bringing another Heart Month to a close, and would like to thank everyone who helped put on, and took part in, our celebrations!
Between interactive information booths at our hospitals and the Malvern Town Centre mall, and the many virtual education sessions on a range of heart-healthy topics, an extra special thank you and congratulations are due to our Central East Regional Cardiovascular Rehab team for everything they have done to make this a great Heart Month!
We invite you to get to know the incredible people who make up this team and bring you information and activities each Heart Month and all throughout the year. When asked about their work, here is what they had to say:
What inspired you to join the Cardiovascular Rehab team?
“Heart disease can affect anyone and can have a lasting impact on their families. Having family members who have passed away because of it really puts into perspective how precious life is. This has inspired me to want to help those living with heart disease and their families live longer, healthier, and happier lives.” Kristen King, Exercise Therapist
“Seeing participants so proud of themselves and the lifestyle changes they successfully made and sharing with me how good they feel now in their every day, absolutely keeps me coming back!” Amber Heath Underwood, Exercise Therapist
“My grandfather had a heart attack in 2003 and went through cardiovascular rehab. Seeing his progress and still having him with my family today means everything to me. The impact of participating in cardiovascular rehab can truly be life changing. His journey inspired me to become a cardiovascular rehab exercise therapist, and I treat every patient who walks through the door like family.” Ellena (Ellie) Douitis, Exercise Therapist
“Cardiac has always had a personal connection in my life, my brother at an early age had his aorta repaired and my uncle had a heart transplant.” Chris Giannace, Exercise Therapist
Not familiar with the Central East Regional Cardiovascular Rehab program?
It is one of North America’s largest networks, serving more than 4,000 patients every year. Led by Scarborough Health Network (SHN) in partnership with Ontario Health, as well as other hospitals, municipalities, and community centres, our program is offered virtually and in person from Toronto, Durham to Peterborough/Kawarthas and Northumberland.
The Cardiovascular Rehab team works closely with cardiovascular patients to put them on the path to better heart health. Together, they partner to set and achieve their lifestyle goals. They educate patients on risk factors, teach exercise progression, and provide them with the tools and skills for you to manage their cardiovascular condition on their own (and with their family). Through our program, patients will also learn to make heart-healthy choices with diet, and they offer support to help them reduce or quit smoking.
“The best part of my job is being able to calm some of the fears about exercise post heart events and see people’s confidence build in the six months they are with us.” Lindsay Braund, Exercise Therapist
“I love working with such a caring and professional team. Each day I watch as patients learn the skills to take their health into their own hands. Often when patients are starting our program, they have many questions and concerns about their health and what to do next. When they leave our program, you can see how strong and confident they become in managing their own health going forward. It gives you a really great feeling every day!” Laura Elson, Secretary Central East Regional Cardiovascular Rehab
What keeps you motivated in your role?
“I stay motivated in my role because I love working with patients. There is nothing like watching a patient go from being scared and anxious in the beginning of the program to six months later be thriving and loving life. To play a small part in that physical and mental recovery is very satisfying.” Niki Smith, Exercise Therapist
“Definitely the patients! It is always very rewarding when they make small behaviour changes to follow a healthier diet. The cardiovascular rehab patients are willingly to listen to my dietary advice and apply it to their own lives. Their strong motivation to follow the nutrition goals we create together motivates me to be the best dietitian I can be to help them accomplish their goals.” Tara Padda, Registered Dietitian
“I have thoroughly enjoyed working with the cardiovascular rehab team for over two decades. It is extremely rewarding to see folks from all walks of life improving their heart health and quality of life. I am happy and proud to be a part of their journey.” Andrea Kenyon-Lee, Exercise Therapist
“I find it most rewarding when I see patients become more confident and empowered to take charge of their health journey and work towards their cardiovascular health goals.” Stephanie Bennett, Exercise Therapist
“At Cardiovascular Rehab, I have the opportunity to interact and network with some amazing people, which challenges and keeps me motivated. I am privileged to be able to learn something new every day. To use my skills in connecting the patients to this wonderful service, at a significant life-changing event, while bringing a bit of laughter and cheer. I feel supported and valued, while having a sense of purpose and accomplishment.” Deborah Morris, Secretary Central East Regional Cardiovascular Rehab
“What keeps me motivated in my job is seeing the success of my patients! We often run into old patients at our off-site locations in the community after they have completed the program, and it is so wonderful to see them continuing the heart healthy the habits we helped them build. I love helping patients build confidence with their exercise and going to work every day knowing you are making a difference in someone’s life is very rewarding!” Megan Hurley, Exercise Therapist
How does our team collaborate to ensure the best outcomes for our patients?
“When working on-site at Centenary Hospital or in the community, from Pickering to Peterborough, our team provides exceptional programming through multiple avenues of communication, collaborating with patients and their circle of care, and adding those personal touches. We have open communication amongst staff to collaborate on cases to determine the best care for our participants. Of course, we have fun, which is an important element to keep the participants returning week after week.” Lori Mullins, Exercise Therapist
“The collaboration between CHF nurse, patient, exercise therapist, and dietitian is essential to supporting our patients in navigating the challenges of chronic illness, while empowering them to take an active role in their health management.” Beth Ferguson, RN