A New Attitude for Cardiac Rehab
John Roche of Moline considered himself physically fit and a heart-healthy eater before he had aortic valve replacement surgery.
With a lifetime of healthy habits, he discovered he still had room to learn in the Pritikin Intensive Cardiac Rehab program at Genesis Medical Center, Silvis. Unlike traditional cardiac rehab programs that focus mostly on physical exercise, Pritikin promotes recovery through three pillars – regular exercise, heart healthy nutrition and a healthy mindset.
The program is celebrating its one-year anniversary at Genesis Medical Center, Davenport and Silvis.
“At first I thought ’I think I can do this on my own,’ but then I decided to try the program and I’m glad I did,” John said. “The Pritikin program established a consistent schedule for me. I learned a lot along the way with monitored exercise and actual cooking classes. It was great to share and learn tips from others going through the program.”
John, 62, who has a genetic predisposition to high cholesterol, has always practiced a healthy lifestyle together with his wife, Jill. When his running performance began to deteriorate a couple of years ago, he went to see a doctor. Testing revealed he had mild aortic stenosis.
“Over time, I could tell I was getting worse. I could run for 20 minutes…then only 15 minutes. I would run up a hill and think ‘This is really difficult’ and then I couldn’t run up hills anymore. I could only run a straightaway for maybe a quarter of a mile.”
More tests later, John’s aortic stenosis had progressed to severe. He underwent surgery on July 6, 2023 to replace his aortic valve and fix one blocked coronary artery.
By fall with the help of his Pritikin workbook, a caring Cardiac Rehab staff and interactive classes, John found new insights and support to manage his heart condition. Focusing on the three Pritikin pillars helped.
John Roche
First, monitored exercise. What did John, already physically fit and a volunteer swim coach, have yet to learn? “I learned I needed to be conscious of my heart rate because I have a tendency to exceed my maximum level,” he said.
Second, heart healthy nutrition. Let’s just say John is experimenting with how to make the healthiest – and tastiest -- granola bar. His latest rendition includes chia seeds and quinoa.
“I became more aware of the differences and benefits of various oils,” John said “I’d come back from class and tell my wife ‘Let’s try almond flour.’ I learned avocados are a healthy fat if eaten in moderation. During cooking demonstrations, the class would ask questions and share how they had experimented with different ingredients. I would go home and try it. I challenge myself to make the food healthy but also to taste good.”
Third, a healthy mindset. ”Being in the class reminded me I needed to be aware of managing stress and mental well-being. You connect with other people. You see you’re not alone in the rehab and recovery journey,” John said. “Everyone has a different story, but you’re all working towards good health.”
John has graduated from the program, but he continues to use the Pritikin tools he learned. “I always looked forward to Cardiac Rehab,” John concludes. “The staff listened to, accepted and encouraged each patient to go further and let them know they mattered. They made it a great place to be!”
To learn more about Pritikin Intensive Cardiac Rehab, call Genesis Cardiac Rehabilitation at (563) 421-6991 in Davenport or (309) 281-4290 in Silvis.
