A program that provides medical, education, exercise, nutritional, and psychosocial support for individuals with cardiac-related conditions is now offered at the Toldo Lancer Centre.

The Cardiac Wellness Maintenance Program, developed through a partnership between Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare and the University of Windsor, was originally based at the Regional Rehabilitation Centre.

The maintenance portion of this program is open to anyone who is looking for continued support after a cardiac event — a heart attack, bypass surgery, cardiac transplant, angioplasty, angina, valve replacement, congestive heart failure, or cardiomyopathy. Those who have experienced such an event and have graduated from the six-month active program are eligible to participate.

Classes are held Monday and Wednesday afternoons in the Lancer Centre. The team, led by nursing and kinesiology students, will guide participants through heart health education, medication management, personalized exercise plans, and nutrition and stress management strategies, helping them adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle.

“What’s unique about being a nursing student running this program is that I get to apply what I’ve learned in practice and theory directly to my involvement in cardiac rehabilitation,” says fourth-year nursing student Tatiana Cahur.

“Whether it’s discussing the importance of medication adherence, monitoring symptoms, or explaining the benefits of a heart-healthy diet and regular exercise, I ensure our members leave each class with the knowledge they need to take control of their health. I recognize the importance of how crucial it is to provide compassionate care, especially to participants who might be dealing with fear or anxiety after a heart event.”

The program is open to new participants whose doctors recommend exercise. Find details and registration on the program website.