A cardiac journey to recovery

In 2000, when Gary Devaul was experiencing pain in his cheek and became pale, he went to the Emergency Department at UHS. He thought it was anything but a heart attack.

However, the cardiologists found three blocked coronary arteries. At the time, Gary received stents to help keep his arteries from narrowing or closing again and stayed under cardiac care at UHS. 

Twenty years had passed before Gary started to have more complications with his heart. Again, he chose UHS for his cardiac care.

"I was under their care and stayed with them from the first day I had my heart attack. They were very supportive of me and have been very good to me," said the Binghamton native.

Within the last two years, Michail Vitellas, MD, of the UHS Heart & Vascular Institute, performed various procedures to help with Gary's cardiac issues. Dr. Vitellas wanted Gary's heart to strengthen, so he recommended the 15-week UHS Cardiac Rehabilitation program at UHS Binghamton General Hospital.

The UHS Cardiac Rehabilitation Program is a comprehensive, medically supervised exercise and education program for patients who have experienced cardiac problems or procedures. It is an individualized program designed to promote the fullest possible recovery, prevent further cardiac complications, and provide education to improve one's understanding of heart disease.

"The best part about the program is seeing the progression of each patient, whether it is exercising or doing daily activities. Each time they have more confidence and enthusiasm to continue the program to strengthen and heal themselves," said Chris Mosconi, exercise physiologist and supervisor of Cardiac Rehabilitation at UHS Binghamton General.

Although Gary has gone through rehab a few times before, he is doing well this time. Before Gary started his recovery, his heart was working at 20%. Now, his heart is at 30%. It may not seem like a lot to some, but this improvement makes Gary feel good about his recovery.

"The folks here are very impressed with my recovery. They remind me where I was the first time compared to now, and it is only getting better. So, I feel good about that," Gary said.

Gary credits the support he receives from the Cardiac Rehabilitation team at UHS for his motivation to continue the program. "When I look at these folks here, they are kind and wonderful," he said. They are very positive and encouraging."

He continues this motivation in his everyday life. There was a time when he walked and biked almost everywhere. With this new motivation, Gary is putting his health first. He is working his way to becoming a walker and biker like he was once before.

Mr. Devaul has a positive outlook on life and always tries to have a good day. He encourages everyone to take care of their body, especially their heart. "You do not realize how much that heart does. It takes on a lot. You have to nurture and take care of it."

To learn more about UHS Cardiac Rehabilitation services, click here.