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Mike Miller stroke patient
A Crucial Call – Mike’s Stroke Story

A fall at work brought on a series of events that Mike Miller never expected. The decisions made by his care team at FMC helped to ensure his quick recovery.

Older-couple-hart-attack-patient
A Grateful Heart – Darlene’s Heart Story

A team approach and personalized care made Monroe County resident Darlene Winland feel right at home at FMC following an unexpected cardiac arrest.

Amanda at Trout Club
A Heartfelt Approach – Amanda’s Arrhythmia Story

When a severe anxiety disorder made it difficult for Amanda Reynolds to seek care for a heart condition, her cardiology team at Fairfield Medical Center helped guide her through the process with compassion and understanding.

A Lifesaving Milestone – One Year Anniversary of TAVR

Aortic stenosis is one of the most common – and most serious – forms of structural heart disease. With an increasing prevalence among the aging population, Fairfield Medical Center offers high quality, lifesaving care to patients in southeastern Ohio – without the travel to large city centers.

Ron Brame
A Second Chance – Life Saving Measures after Heart Attack

Since 2021, Ron Brame has made it his mission to not only recover from the heart attack that nearly took his life, but to thank the many caregivers at FMC who were by his side every step of the way.

FMC-Heart-patient-and-Dr.-Mannava
A Second Chance at Life – Don’s Vascular Story

Four out of five people don’t survive a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm, but Don Dupler was one of the lucky ones.

FMC Heart patient Chuck Snider
Against All Odds – Chuck’s Heart Story

Chuck Snider, a long-time resident of the greater Toledo area, is no stranger to the Lancaster community. “I grew up here, and I graduated from Berne Union High School,” he shared. “To come back and see Fairfield Medical Center after all this time has been incredible; it’s an excellent hospital.”

Cardiac Rehab: Confidence in Recovery – Keith’s Story

Surviving a heart scare often marks the start of a new, health-focused lifestyle. For many, it’s a realization that can feel overwhelming. This was certainly true for Keith Garrett, now 57, of Lancaster. Hours after experiencing a cardiac event and receiving care at Fairfield Medical Center, Keith found himself wondering what his future might look like. Fortunately for him, his doctor instructed him to enroll in FMC’s Cardiac Rehabilitation Program in the coming weeks.

FMC-Heart-Pump-Patient-walking
Enjoying the Ride – Delbert’s Heart Care Story

A small heart pump and a skilled team of caregivers at FMC saved Delbert Buck’s life following a sudden heart attack.

FMC Heart Care Patient Mike Henwood
Experience the Expertise – Mike’s Heart Care Story

When Mike Henwood of Lancaster arrived at Fairfield Medical Center after suffering an aortic aneurysm, he was in dire straits – but luckily, he found himself in capable hands.

Ken Bussart
Experience the Teamwork – Ken’s Heart Care Story

Committed to getting his care at FMC, Glouster resident Ken Bussart drove two hours round trip every week for cardiac rehab.

Mom and daughter in front of Emergency Care
Hearts of Gold – Nikki’s Heart Care Story

From the EMS who wouldn’t leave her side to the clinicians who cared for her and her family, Nikki Griffin has one word to describe her experience: heartfelt.

Scott Hardwick cardiology
Heart of the Community – Scott’s Heart Care Story

Sudden cardiac arrest survivor Scott Hardwick nearly died multiple times in one day, but the quick thinking and action of his caregivers saved his life.

Jay Truesdell AfIB patient
Keeping the Pace – Jay’s Heart Story

When Afib threatened to keep Jay Truesdell from his passion, FMC got him back on track.

Living Life in Rhythm – The Vaughan’s Heart Care Story

Community Heart Watch, a program that started a decade ago through Fairfield Medical Center, aims to save lives from cardiac arrest while also making a difference for residents such as Andrew Vaughan and his son, Ryder, who both live with the same heart condition.

Living Proof – Mike’s Vascular Care Story

After years of avoiding routine check-ups, a near-fatal event has Mike North counting his blessings – and encouraging others not to put off their preventative care.

Making Strides – Terri’s Stroke Story

After a stroke affected the use of Terri Garrett’s left arm and hand, her therapy team at FMC helped her establish a plan of action to reclaim the mobility she had lost.

FMC Heart Patient Lisa Lipka
Matters of the Heart – Lisa’s Heart Care Story

When Lisa Lipka needed surgery to remove a large cyst near her heart, her FMC cardiovascular team was there to ease her concerns and help her heal.

Not Skipping a Beat – Jack’s TAVR Story

Avid outdoorsman Jack Campbell is rediscovering his passions and enjoying a renewed sense of energy following minimally invasive heart surgery.

Robert Jones FMC TAVR patient
State-of-the-Heart Technology – Bob’s Aortic Stenosis Story

Robert “Bob” Jones recently became the first patient at Fairfield Medical Center to be treated with the TAVR procedure, an innovative alternative to open-heart surgery.

Surviving Cardiac Arrest - Patient Reunion
Surviving Cardiac Arrest – A Heartfelt Patient Reunion

The Beat Goes On is an event that connects survivors of major cardiac events with the first responders and the Fairfield Medical Center team members who cared for them in their time of critical need. This is the third year FMC has hosted this celebration, which highlights the gift of second chances, the joy of new milestones and the long-lasting bonds that caregivers form with patients and their families. On March 6, five cardiac arrest and critically ill heart patients – along with their biggest supporters – attended the reunion to reconnect with the people who were there for them at the worst time of their lives.

Surviving a Pulmonary Embolism The Monitor Patient Experience
Surviving a Pulmonary Embolism – Marianne’s Story

When holiday-enthusiast Marianne Jackson experienced a pulmonary embolism that nearly took her life, she feared her days of decorating might be over. Thankfully, quick intervention from her caregivers led to a full recovery.

Surviving and Thriving – Deb’s Heart Story

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women, and Deb Gilbert almost contributed to that statistic. Thanks to her grandson’s lifesaving actions and the care of her cardiac and therapy teams at FMC, Deb is now urging other women to pay attention to the warning signs that she ignored.

Man in grey sweatshirt on stationary bike next to nurse
Tending to the Heart – Tim’s Heart Story

Following a heart transplant, Tim Graham turned to FMC’s Heart & Lung Fund for cardiac rehab assistance.

The Long Road Home – Dale’s Heart Care Journey

In a year full of challenges and tribulations, heart attack survivor Dale Richardson and his girlfriend Merri found comfort in two simple realizations: Miracles are possible, and the world is full of kind people.

Senior heart patient planting flowers with wife and grandson
The Root of the Problem – Ron’s Heart Story

Ron Ramey thought his on-again, off-again chest pain was a symptom of acid reflux – until a trip to FMC’s Emergency Dept. uncovered a serious cardiac problem.

Stroke patient Jackie Bailey and family
Time On My Side – Jackie’s Stroke Story

Despite a delay in seeking treatment, Jackie Bailey’s care teams at FMC and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center were able to race against the clock to save her life following a sudden stroke.

WATCHMAN: Guarding Against Stroke – Jerry’s Story

When an unexpected hospital stay and subsequent diagnosis threatened to interrupt Jerry’s peaceful lifestyle, he turned to Fairfield Medical Center and a procedure known as WATCHMAN to help him overcome his health obstacles.

Atrial Fibrillation: What You Need to Know

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most commonly treated arrhythmia, or abnormal heart rhythm in the nation. This condition is more likely to develop as we age, and it’s estimated that 12.1 million people in the United States will have AFib in 2030 (CDC).

Senior couple smiling together
Beating Heart Valve Disease

In 2019, David Mast noticed he had less energy than he used to. The Structural Heart Team at FMC quickly determined he was suffering from aortic stenosis – and they made a plan to fix it. Learn more about the symptoms of aortic stenosis and valve disease treatment.

Healthy eating for better health: Fruits, vegetables, lean-proteins and whole grains
Healthy Eating for a Happy Heart

When stress hits hard, many of us eat more, and less-than-healthy food and treats are often what we reach for first. But an unhealthy response to stress can be hard on your body, especially your heart.

Heart Health: Know Your Numbers

Your blood pressure, cholesterol, BMI and blood sugar all play important roles in your cardiovascular health. If you don’t know your critical numbers, talk to your primary care provider: it might be time for a check-up.

Heart Health: Preventing Heart Disease

The thought of preventing heart disease might seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Making simple, healthy choices in your day-to-day life can go a long way towards improving your cardiovascular health and reducing your risk factors.

Active seniors on bicycles
Cholesterol-Lowering Injections and Reducing Risk for Cardiovascular Disease

Lifestyle modifications and medications, like statins, are commonly the of first step in managing cholesterol and lipid levels. Injectable therapies, however, may provide an additional tool for lowering “bad” cholesterol and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Managing Heart Failure

The Heart Failure Clinic at Fairfield Medical Center is not only dedicated to treating your heart failure. It’s dedicated to helping you live your fullest life by teaching you how to manage your condition.

Preventive Cardiology: Advanced Imaging and Screenings

“Preventive cardiology is where we get to work on keeping that first heart attack from ever happening,” explained Jonathan Forquer, DO, of Fairfield Healthcare Professionals Cardiology. “When we can identify cardiac disease early using things like coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores, we can get ahead on a patient’s health.”

Preventive cardiology: Be proactive in managing your risk of cardiovascular disease
Preventive Cardiology: Staying Ahead of Heart Disease

Preventive cardiology prioritizes identifying and managing cardiovascular risk factors before a heart attack ever occurs. At Fairfield Healthcare Professionals Cardiology, Jon Forquer, DO, is committed to curbing cardiac emergencies for his patients.

Saving Lives from SCA Takes Courage

Bystander intervention from neighbors, strangers and friends can double or triple the chance of a cardiac arrest victim’s survival. Unfortunately, emergency situations can inspire fear – and fear can make us freeze. Being aware, prepared and armed with the knowledge to intervene can give you the courage you need to save a life.

Educators Save Life of Local Student, Recognized for Taking Action

On April 27, Fairfield Medical Center and the Community Heart Watch committee recognized seven Lancaster City Schools staff members for their lifesaving actions during a medical emergency in January 2021.

Fairfield County Foundation Supports “Heart Safe” Mission

While Fairfield Medical Center serves as the fiscal agent for Community Heart Watch, many of their valuable initiatives are funded by donations and grants from organizations across the region. In 2022, the Fairfield County Foundation awarded the group $19,525 to further their lifesaving mission.

Fairfield Medical Center Reunites Recovered Heart Patients with Caregivers

Fairfield Medical Center hosted a special reunion at FMC’s River Valley Campus. During the event, three recovered cardiac patients were given the opportunity to share a heartfelt “thank you” with the caregivers who not only made a difference in their lives, but who made their survival and recovery possible.

Fisher Catholic High School Accredited as Heart Safe

In December 2022, Fisher Catholic High School in Lancaster received a three-year Heart Safe School Accreditation from Community Heart Watch.

Fairfield Medical Center
FMC Celebrates One Year of TAVR, Improved Quality of Life

Learn more about FMC’s innovative valve replacement technology and what it means for the community.

FMC Expands Electrophysiology Program, Treatment

Fairfield Medical Center’s comprehensive cardiovascular program is investing in technology to expand care and treatment options for patients with arrhythmias, or abnormal heart rhythms.

FMC Introduces New Ablation Technology

Fairfield Medical Center becomes first in state to use Medtronic’s new ablation technology, a quick and efficient treatment option for patients with paroxysmal or persistent atrial fibrillation.

FMC Offers Cutting-Edge TCAR for Carotid Artery Stenosis

Fairfield Medical Center is now offering TCAR (transcarotid artery revascularization), a hybrid treatment option for those living with carotid artery stenosis.

Fairfield Medical Center
FMC Performs New Life Saving Heart Procedure

A new, minimally invasive treatment option for patients living with a common form of valvular heart disease is now being offered at Fairfield Medical Center.

Matt Taylor Kia Great Save
FMC Recognizes Lifesaving Efforts at Matt Taylor Kia

Fairfield Medical Center and the Greenfield Township Fire Department recognized the lifesaving efforts of staff at Matt Taylor Kia.

FMC Reunites Cardiac Arrest Survivors with Caregivers

On Thursday, March 21, Fairfield Medical Center recognized eight patients – ranging in age from 10 to 72 years – who beat the odds of surviving cardiac arrest and honored the individuals who served as vital links in their chains of survival.

Lancaster Teen Recognized by Lancaster Fire Department, FMC for Heroic Actions

The Lancaster Fire Department, Fairfield Medical Center and FMC Community Heart Watch came together during Festival Fair Day on July 24 to recognize a local teenager whose quick action helped save the life of his grandmother.

Community Heart Watch Donates AED to Perry Co. Gym

Through its Community AED program, which has placed more than 400 of the life-saving devices in community areas or public places, Community Heart Watch was able to donate an AED to Polly Pletcher, owner of New Dimensions Tan & Fitness.

Community Heart Watch Receives $9,950 Grant from Fairfield Co. Foundation

Fairfield Medical Center and Community Heart Watch – a committee dedicated to raising awareness and improving survival rates of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) – recently received a $9,950 grant from the Fairfield County Foundation that will be used for education and the purchase of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) for the community.

Community Heart Watch Recognizes Lancaster Man for Lifesaving Intervention

The Lancaster Fire Department, Fairfield Medical Center and Community Heart Watch recently came together at Deb’s Corner Café in Lancaster to recognize a staff member from the restaurant whose quick action helped save a life.

Community Heart Watch Unveils Mobile CPR and AED Training Unit

Community Heart Watch is proud to announce that its new CPR and AED mobile training unit will begin serving Fairfield, Hocking and Perry counties beginning this spring. The mobile training unit is a 14’ trailer equipped with CPR manikins and AED training devices. Throughout the year, Community Heart Watch members will bring the unit to various community events to provide hands-on training for CPR and AED use.

PulsePoint logo
Fairfield Co. Wins $5,000 Grant in AED Pulsepoint Contest

Fairfield Medical Center’s Community Heart Watch Committee is the recipient of a $5,000 grant from the PulsePoint Foundation, money that will be used to purchase AEDs (automated external defibrillators) for public safety staff and the community.

Lancaster banks donate AEDs to nonprofit groups
Local Banks Donate AEDs to Fairfield Co. Non-Profits

Three local banks – Fairfield Federal Savings & Loan, Friendly Bremen Banking Center and Park National Bank – donated a total of 30 AEDs to non-profit organizations in Fairfield County.

Local Parks Receive Heart Safe Park Designation from Community Heart Watch

Three local parks – Rising Park in Lancaster, Alt Park in Baltimore and Buckeye Lake State Park – recently earned the designation of a “Heart Safe Park” from Community Heart Watch.