The couple that does heart rehab together heals together

When Pete and Maureen Shumaker come to Reid Health Cardiopulmonary Rehab, it's like spending time with old friends. After all, they've been relying on the team there on and off for more than 11 years.

Pete's first experience with Reid's cardiac rehab program was in 2011 after heart bypass surgery. The second was in 2015, after another heart surgery to improve blood flow. He experienced first-hand how exercising under the careful supervision of cardiac rehab specialists can help build strength and endurance.

Pete's wife, Maureen, accompanied him to all his rehab appointments on the main Reid campus in Richmond. She never suspected she'd one day return as a patient. But in February 2022, that's exactly what happened.

Maureen went to see her family doctor, Amy Goff, DO, because she was concerned about symptoms such as shortness of breath and dizziness. Dr. Goff ordered an ultrasound, which revealed a heart tumor. Maureen needed open-heart surgery immediately.

"The news blindsided me, but everything happened so fast I almost didn't have time to worry," Maureen said. "I had the surgery two days later and afterward did at-home physical and occupational therapy. When I wasn't progressing as well as my cardiologist thought I should be, he recommended cardiac rehab.

"I knew right away I'd be going to Reid. I feel comfortable there because the staff is so professional and friendly. I like them so much I once baked them a pie!"

During cardiac rehab, patients typically come to the center three times a week for strength-building activities, health education, nutrition counseling, and hands-on support. Patients exercise on treadmills, arm bikes, stationary bikes, and ellipticals and use hand weights. The staff watches closely using state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and helps patients work toward specific goals.

At the end of 12 weeks, patients can continue to exercise at the cardiac rehab center for a nominal fee. During this phase, called "maintenance," there's less supervision, but the staff is always available to answer questions or help if concerns arise.

"I knew right away I'd be going to Reid. I feel comfortable there because the staff is so professional and friendly. I like them so much I once baked them a pie!" -- Maureen Shumaker

Maureen began doing maintenance in July 2022. Two months later, Pete had a minor heart attack and underwent another heart surgery. Afterward, Pete's cardiologist, Rubinder Dab, MD, recommended cardiac rehab.

"I've had a good experience at the cardiac rehab center all three times. It's a good program because the staff watches you and takes care of you," Pete said. "If you run into any problems, Reid Heart & Vascular Center is right down the hall and so is the emergency department."

Pete and Maureen are both in maintenance mode now and feeling good. They love seeing familiar faces at rehab and caring for their health in a welcoming environment.

"We work out, but it's not all business," Pete said. "I can honestly say we have a good time!"

For more information about Reid Health Cardiopulmonary Rehab or to schedule an appointment, call (765) 983-3297 for the Richmond location or (765) 827-7753 for Connersville.