From Cardiac Rehab to 'Heart-Pounding' Skydives 

In 2021, Dennis King was experiencing episodes in which he felt like passing out. He visited his primary care doctor and was referred to a cardiologist at Bryan Heart. Tests revealed that all four of the arteries in his heart were 70-90% blocked. He was a heart attack waiting to happen.

At the urging of the Bryan Heart team, King underwent a quadruple bypass surgery. The procedure was a success. Several months later, King also had a pacemaker installed to help control his heart rhythm. Since that procedure, he has not experienced any additional episodes.

After his procedure, King joined the cardiac rehab program at Bryan LifePointe. The team helped him create an exercise plan that improved his heart health. He also attended classes that taught him proper nutritional guidelines and the value of a healthy diet. After several weeks in the program, the 75-year old graduated from cardiac rehab. And for his 75th birthday last May, King received clearance from his doctors and went skydiving. It was his fifth time falling from the clouds. And he plans to head back up for another jump on his 76th trip around the sun.

Life-Sustaining Program Began in the 1970s  

Since the 1970s, Bryan has offered cardiac rehab to patients who have suffered a heart attack, bypass surgery, balloon angioplasty or stent/valve procedures. The program began at Bryan East Campus nearly 50 years ago and continues today at Bryan LifePointe. Thousands of patients have graduated and benefited from the program.

Cardiac rehab begins as soon as possible after a heart procedure. Often, patients are up and walking to begin their recovery just hours after surgery. After being discharged from the hospital, skilled and caring therapists work with patients at Bryan LifePointe to regain strength and quality of life. Cardiac rehab includes:

• Monitored exercise program of aerobic and resistance training exercises
• Education and program to reduce risk factors for heart problems
• Nutritional counseling

Cardiac rehab is a valuable tool for patients in their recovery. It helps control the symptoms of heart disease and reduces the risk factors of cardiac issues, including weight, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

Today, King continues to exercise regularly at Bryan LifePointe. He maintains a close relationship with the therapists who helped him recover. He credits the cardiac rehab team for saving his life and providing the tools needed to continue to lead a healthy lifestyle.