Editor:
On June 1, a new program was launched on the Sunshine Coast by Vancouver Coastal Health: the Happy Heart Plus program. Up until that day, cardiac patients had no option for follow-up rehab except to make the long, exhausting trek to Vancouver to join an existing program. Thanks to a small, determined group of professionals and a timely push by a couple of patients and their families, existing local resources have responded to this real community need: to re-create health and strength after life-altering illness or surgery. St. Paul's Hospital has been the mother-ship, providing training and materials.
I am one of the cardiac patients who now have a twice-weekly program of exercise, education and support. For the monthly cost of membership in the community centres in Gibsons and Sechelt, I am able to know that I am getting stronger and to learn what I can do to stay healthy.
I want to express my gratitude. Some said, "Sorry, we don't have any money to put into this." But a visionary nurse spearheaded the plans, and with her efforts, other critical aspects clicked into place. I know there are many more patients of chronic and acute diseases here who are still in need of support to prevent strokes and control diabetes - things the medical teams know better than I. I hope our professionals receive the backing from our community and from all levels of government to have our needs met locally. It makes such a difference!
Deanne Mineau, Sechelt
