[envira-gallery id=”10279″] Chances are we all know someone affected by heart disease, which is the second leading cause of death in Vermont. At CVHHH, we recognize the impact that chronic diseases like heart disease have on a person and their family. This is why we are committed to helping individuals who are living with chronic conditions achieve the best possible health and quality of life.
In honor of American Heart Month, we are sharing James’s story, which showcases how, through collaboration, education, and utilizing technology, one central Vermonter is able to manage his heart disease and continue to live safely at home with his wife of 57 years.
Meet James — James and his wife, Marilyn, live in Barre. They met almost 60 years ago when they both worked at Central Market on Summer Street. James had a long career working in the local granite industry and as a foreman. Marilyn worked for many years in town at a dry cleaner, and for the past 37 years she has driven a school bus. In 1987, James had a heart attack and triple bypass surgery. Along the way, he’s developed a number of conditions that compromise his health, including COPD, though he quit smoking 30 years ago.
After developing pneumonia last December, James was admitted to the hospital. When he was ready to be discharged, James’s physician sent him home with a referral for home health services and a request for a telemonitor. Telemonitors are digital, tablet-sized devices that allow patients to record their vital signs (blood pressure, blood oxygen, heart rate, weight) and symptoms (via health related question sets) and transmit the data directly to the Telehealth Nurse at CVHHH, Bridget Chatterley, who reviews each patient’s data as it is received.
Bridget, James, and Marilyn have been working closely for four months to manage James’s condition. This has necessitated James making adjustments to his morning routine. After waking up at 5:30am and having breakfast James takes his vital signs then rides for 20 minutes on his stationary bike. The bike is set up in front of a big picture window, where James looks out over a small pond on his property. “James has been very motivated and dedicated,” says Bridget. “Every time something in his data looks off, I give him a call. It’s like a dialogue. All of these tiny, very individual remarks and changes in his vital signs, combined with education about diet and using the equipment, are helping to keep James motivated to stay on track and healthy in his home.”
“Whenever my blood pressure is low, Bridget will call,” James says. “It’s taken me a long time to come back. The people at home health check on me, and they encourage me. I couldn’t have made it without them.”
Learn More
- Heart Disease Care at CVHHH
- Telemonitoring at CVHHH