|
|
Marie and Thomas Doyle,
Windber Dean Ornish Program Participants
Written by Marie Doyle
Our lives, before the Dean Ornish Program at Windber Medical Center, were filled with many visits to the emergency room, shortness of breath, tiredness, fatigue, and 29 prescription medications.
Tom had 6 bypasses to his heart, followed by a pacemaker 5 months later, and 1 year and 5 months later a second open heart surgery. Today, we can thank our physician, Dr. Baer (not a Windber MD), who recommended the program and told us it was the only choice if Tom wanted to live an active life.
When we entered the program, my total cholesterol was 294 with the use of Lipitor, a medication to lower it. After 12 weeks in the program, which includes diet, stress management, exercise and group support, my level decreased to 134. The stress management had done wonders for us. We are able to cope with problems differently, which in turn, has improved our outlook on life.
When we entered the program Tom was obese, diabetic, asthmatic and using a nebulizer and three inhalers along with his 29 prescription medications. Today he has cut his prescription medications down to 14. His asthma has improved and he has not had to use the inhalers or nebulizers for the past year.
We know if we did not complete the Dean Ornish Program (or make this lifestyle change), our lives would be a lot different. Thanks to each one of the staff of the Ornish Program at Windber Medical Center, we are enjoying our love to travel and enjoy making plans for the future. Before the Dean Ornish Program at Windber Medical Center and all of the Windber staff, we felt we had no future. We thank all those who helped us complete the program and who gave us guidance in making healthier choices.
—Thomas and Marie Doyle
|
|
|
