See and Hear Real-Life Patient Stories from People With Heart Disease
These videos of inspiring patient stories show the impact that advanced heart care can have on even the most serious kinds of heart disease.
Dian’s Story – atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, second opinions
After feeling uncomfortable with a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation received at a big-city heart hospital, Dian Gerstner sought a second opinion from a Marshfield Clinic cardiologist she trusted. He saw signs of something more and confirmed a dangerous blockage of an important artery. She was successfully treated for both problems in Weston at Ministry Saint Clare’s Hospital.
“I just felt very certain that I was in the right hands.”
Read Dian’s story.See and hear more patient stories.
Robert’s Story – severe heart attack, Rescue 1
Robert Lass lives in Stevens Point, but he had a very severe heart attack during a Northwoods fishing tournament. After treatment at the scene, he was taken to Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital. Following Rescue 1 protocols, he was flown to Weston for advanced care at Ministry Saint Clare’s Hospital, where he was treated by a Marshfield Clinic cardiologist. His heart actually stopped and was restarted more than 20 times! A combination of circumstances and the remarkable coordination of the Marshfield Clinic and Ministry Health Care heart care team helped him survive what could have been a deadly heart attack.
“Thank you.”
Read Robert’s story. See and hear more patient stories.
Dale’s Story – severe heart disease, bypass surgery
Dale Evert’s employer proved to play an important part in his life when he suddenly found himself the victim of heart disease. Dale is the Director of Food and Nutrition Services at Ministry Saint Clare’s Hospital. His Ministry Medical Group doctor referred him to the Marshfield Clinic and Ministry Health Care heart care team when she saw signs of heart disease. Thanks to bypass surgery at Ministry Saint Clare’s Hospital and lifestyle changes, Dale feels he’s healthier than he’s been in years.
“I was basically a heart attack waiting to happen.”
Read Dale’s story.See and hear more patient stories.
Susan’s Story – heart disease in women
Susan Nelson’s story is an example of how the signs of heart disease can be different in women. She experienced both a heart rhythm problem and several coronary artery blockages. She was treated at Marshfield Clinic and Ministry Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Marshfield.
“There’s nowhere else I would have gone.”
Read Susan’s story.See and hear more patient stories.
Gary’s Story – heart attack
Gary Appel, of Eagle River, is an economist with a health care background. His decades of health care experience include testifying before the United States Senate health subcommittee. He went to Marshfield Clinic Minocqua Center after experiencing chest pains and was transferred to Ministry Saint Clare’s Hospital in Weston, where he received a complex triple-stent insertion procedure.
“I’ve worked in health care for over 40 years...From what I can observe, this is as good as any in the entire country.”
Read Gary’s story.See and hear more patient stories.
Meda’s Story – coronary artery disease
Meda Heywood is on a mission to educate other women about the dangers – and signs – of heart disease. She’s completely changed her lifestyle since finding out she had heart disease, and uses her experience to inspire others at heart walks and other events. She was evaluated at Marshfield Clinic Marshfield Center and received two stents at Ministry Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Marshfield.
“I had worries, yes. I did not have deep concern because I knew I was in the most skilled hands...”
Read Meda’s story.See and hear more patient stories.
Dick’s Story – coronary artery disease
Dick Dutrisac splits his time between California and Minocqua. He eats right, exercises, and doesn’t smoke. Other than minor high blood pressure, there was no reason to suspect he had heart disease before a routine exam saved his life. This one-time UW-Madison basketball player and retired health care businessman tells a story that proves that heart disease can strike anyone.
“It is satisfying to know with certainty that you have a good team behind you.”
Read Dick’s story.See and hear more patient stories.