Dan,
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Dan's StoryDan has had four bypass operations to help improve circulation in his legs. During the last operation he suffered a heart attack and was told that he had an inoperable cardiac condition that made any further surgery impossible. He was walking with a cane and taking medicine for sporadic angina pain. Since completing EECP therapy, Dan has experienced no chest pain and has taken no medication. He feels so much better he has stopped using his cane and bought a treadmill which he is using daily to help build his strength. After seeing an article on EECP in The Patriot Ledger, Dan felt, "They wrote that article for me." He called his health coverage and learned that this treatment was covered and made an appointment with Granite Medical. Interviewer: How severe was your angina? Dan: It wasn't a constant thing. I would get it one day and then be fine for a day or two and then it would come back. I took medicine as I needed it for the pain. Interviewer: What was the EECP treatment like? Dan: I got used to it pretty quickly. It seemed a little strange but it never hurt or was even uncomfortable, really. I was never tired after the treatment. I know some people brought videos to watch but I just relaxed or talked to Barbara and Dr. Berrick. Interviewer: Have you been more active since you completed EECP? Dan: After a few weeks of the treatment, I noticed I was carrying my cane instead of using it. And I would take the stairs instead of the elevator. I have a handicap sticker on my car, but I usually park in the regular spaces to make myself walk a little further. I bought a treadmill and I am using it to build up my strength. Interviewer: What would you say to someone who was considering EECP? Dan: That's easy. I'd say, Just go for it! It worked for me. |
