A Second Chance
Maria Hernandez
Heart disease is the number one killer of Americans, yet many people are unaware of the symptoms of the disease — something one Melrose Park resident knows firsthand.
When Maria Hernandez, 54, began having difficulty breathing in October 2006, she never would have guessed she was on the verge of a heart attack. After being sent to a local hospital for what was determined to be pneumonia, Maria went home where she thought she would recover on her own. Three days later she was still having trouble breathing, so she went to see a physician who referred her to Loyola University Health System for a stress test.
During her stress test at Loyola, the technician noticed that Maria’s heart was in distress and she was immediately rushed to the adjacent cardiac catheterization laboratory where it was found that she had suffered a mild heart attack. Maria underwent an emergency procedure to correct blockages in her arteries.
“I was absolutely stunned to learn I had a heart condition,” Maria said. “My doctor said I was a ticking time bomb and that I would have suffered a major heart attack or stroke if my condition had not been found sooner. To say I was lucky is an understatement.”
“Heart disease develops over many years, so it’s very important to live a heart-healthy lifestyle," Bruce Lewis, MD, board-certified cardiologist and interventional cardiologist at Loyola, said. "Exercising 45 minutes or more at least five days of the week, avoiding smoking and eating a low-fat diet consisting of whole grains, fruits and vegetables can help you reduce your chances of suffering from this prevalent disease.”After having two stents placed to open blocked arteries, Maria felt secure that her life had been saved by the emergency procedures. She began cardiac rehabilitation and also started an exercise program. She also has changed her diet and has eliminated greasy foods.
“The wonderful physicians and nurses at Loyola have given me a second chance, and I can’t wait to begin this new phase of my life,” Maria said. “I encourage everyone to undergo a stress test to check for signs of heart disease. I am living proof that early detection of heart disease saves lives.”
To make an appointment or find out more about our Center for Heart & Vascular Medicine, call (888) LUHS-888 and ask for extension 6-4059.