Sweet Music: Trust, Teamwork Save Justin from Heart Attack

Sweet Music: Trust, Teamwork Save Justin from Heart Attack
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Sweet Music: Trust, Teamwork Save Justin from Heart Attack
Justin Fisher rarely gave his health much thought. But when tests revealed he had potentially life-threatening clots in three arteries, he was glad he had a team of caring doctors in his corner.
Updated November 21, 2024
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Justin Fisher admits that diet and exercise were not always top of mind. An audio engineer, he was often touring with popular R&B musicians or making sure services at area churches sounded just right.
When the pandemic shut down public gatherings, Justin switched gears to become a full-time caregiver for his mother, who had heart and kidney failure. Seeing how diabetes affected his mother’s health, he made an appointment in April 2022 with Virtua primary care physician
Denne “Donee” Thomas-Patterson
, MD, for a physical and blood work.
“My blood sugar and A1C were fine,” said Justin. “But my cholesterol was in the 300s. Dr. Thomas-Patterson was troubled, given my numbers and my mom’s heart issues, and thought I should see a cardiologist.”
‘A Walking Heart Attack’
Going into his appointment with Virtua cardiologist
Troy Randle
, DO, MBA, FACC, FACOI, Justin wasn’t worried. After all, he was only in his mid-30s and was not experiencing any symptoms.
“His electrocardiogram had some abnormalities, and I was concerned given his elevated cholesterol, blood pressure, and family history,” said Dr. Randle. “We talked about medication. He was resistant, like ‘I can do this on my own.’”
When an echocardiogram revealed Justin’s heart was not pumping sufficiently—a sign of coronary artery disease—Dr. Randle scheduled him for a
cardiac catheterization
at Virtua Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital.
The catheterization found Justin had three significant blockages in his arteries that needed immediate intervention.
“I’m still thinking I’m fine. But my cousin, who worked in an operating room, told me I was ‘a walking massive heart attack,’ and that people with that severity of blockages don’t survive,” said Justin, of Pennsauken. “I didn’t realize how serious it was until I had the three stents put in.”
‘Doing Nothing Is Not an Option’
Justin’s positive outcome reflects what can happen when there is trust between a doctor and patient.
“Medicine is a partnership. We’re a team,” said Dr. Randle. “Once patients feel like they can relate to me—they feel they can trust me—treatment becomes easier.”
“Justin initially refused medication, but I told him he had to see a cardiologist. Doing nothing is not an option. With Dr. Randle taking the steps to discover Justin’s blockages, it’s a good example of real teamwork,” said Dr. Thomas-Patterson. “We were able to prevent what would have been a life-changing
heart attack
or
stroke
.”
Today, thanks to medications, a healthy diet, and workouts at the gym, Justin is lowering his cholesterol and blood pressure. And that’s music to everyone’s ears.
“Being a caretaker for my mom, that put a different perspective on going to the doctor and making sure I’m OK,” he said. “I’m paying more attention to how I’m feeling.”
Heart Care—Where and When You Need It Most
Virtua’s team of more than 100 cardiac experts provides comprehensive cardiac care, from medical cardiology to interventional procedures to advanced cardiac surgery. Appointments are available within 48 hours.
Schedule an appointment online with a Virtua cardiologist
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Jill Pinkelman and Budd Springer live 1,200 miles apart and had never met. Budd’s need for a new kidney brought them together.
Five Mindfulness Tips That Can Help Heal Your Heart
It’s OK to feel upset at times. But if your emotions are too frequent or intense, your heart could pay the price. Virtua cardiologist Hafeza Shaikh, DO, offers some tips to heal both the mind and the heart.
3 Ways to Avoid Knee Pain
Knee pain can get in the way of your favorite activities, making it difficult to keep up with an active lifestyle – so why not stop it before it starts? Here are three quick ways to fight back the most common causes of knee pain.
When Should I See a Doctor for My Hip Pain?
Hip pain limits mobility. While some pain may be relieved at home, Virtua orthopedic surgeon Rajesh Jain, MD, answers your questions about when you should seek professional treatment.
When Should I See a Doctor About My Shoulder Pain?
Our shoulder gives us great range of motion, but also opportunity for pain. Virtua orthopedic surgeon Andrea Bowers, MD, answers your questions about treating shoulder pain.
Is My Back Pain Normal, or Is It Sciatica?
Do you just have a pulled muscle, or are you suffering from sciatica? Anokhi Mehta, MD, Virtua Pain Medicine Specialist, explores some frequently asked questions related to the condition, and what you can do about it.
Is My Back Pain Normal, or Is It a Herniated Disk?
Back pain can be caused by anything from strained muscles to sleeping in an awkward position—but when is it time to be concerned? Spine Surgeon James Sanfilippo, MD, explores answers to some common questions about herniated disks.
When Is It Back Pain, and When Is It Something More?
Ever wondered if your back pain was caused by poor posture or a more serious condition? Pain Management specialist Benjamin Duckles, MD, has got your back with the answers to some common questions.
Watchman Heart Device: a Technological Breakthrough for Blood Clot Prevention
Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is a heart rhythm disorder that can increase chances of a stroke. Cardiologist Heath Saltzman, MD, discusses the Watchman device, an innovative medical implant for AFib that can save lives.
Albert's Emergency Cardiac Surgery Is a 'Story of a Lifetime'
Timely rescue and emergency aortic dissection surgery at Virtua Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital saved Albert’s life.
What Can I Do Right Now About My Aching Back?
One in four American adults has lower back pain, and it's a top reason people visit the doctor. Eric Requa, DO, Virtua Sports Medicine Specialist, offers simple steps that may ease your pain without a doctor's visit.
How Do I Get Rid of This Back Pain for Good?
The path to back pain relief isn't always clear, but the best first step is getting an accurate diagnosis. Learn what to do when at-home treatments no longer cut it.
Love Your Heart: Essential Care Tips for Every Stage of Life
Heart-healthy habits boost your well-being now, and set you up for better health later in life. And they’re as good for your children and aging parents as they are for you.
How Do I Measure My Blood Pressure at Home?
Checking your blood pressure at home is key to managing hypertension. Virtua cardiologist Vasu Palli, DO, has good advice on finding a good monitor and how to measure your blood pressure correctly.
How Do I Improve My Cholesterol Levels?
When it comes to your cholesterol, there's the good (HDL) and the bad (LDL). Learn how boosting your good cholesterol number can help lower your bad cholesterol number.
3 Ways to Reduce Your Stroke Risk
Working with your doctor, you can live a healthier lifestyle and explore medical options to reduce your risk for stroke.
When Should I Be Worried About My Neck Pain?
Do you wake with neck pain, thinking you “slept wrong” or overdid your upper body workout? Thomas Plut, DO, Virtua Sports Medicine Physician, explains when to seek medical help for your neck pain.
Advanced Heart Failure Therapies Get Bernadine Back to Full Speed
Thanks to guideline-directed medical therapy, including an implanted device to regulate and synchronize her heartbeat, Bernadine heart function has returned to normal.
Sarah Wins Back Her Health After Crohn's Disease Diagnosis
Sarah Campbell won the Mrs. New Jersey International 2021 title just months after being diagnosed with Crohn’s disease and undergoing bowel surgery.
Overcoming Addiction, Philip Now Sees More Positive Side to Life
Virtua’s Medication for Addiction Therapy program provided the medical and behavioral therapy Philip needed to help him overcome his reliance on opioids.
Firefighter's Successful Lung Cancer Care at Virtua
Thankfully, Jerry paid attention to his lingering cough and as a result, got the expert care needed to treat his lung cancer.
A Lung Screening Put Teresa Back in the Race
Teresa Nocentino feared years of smoking had damaged her lungs. Virtua’s lung screening program caught Teresa’s cancer, helping her get it treated and back in the race.
A Breast Self-Exam Saved Kristen's Life
When Kristen Davidson found a lump in her left breast, she immediately called her doctor. Her quick action and the efforts of the Penn Medicine | Virtua Cancer Program team led to successful treatment.
Protect Your Child From HPV and Related Cancers
The HPV vaccine can protect your child from a cancer-causing sexually transmitted disease. An appointment with your pediatrician can get the process started.
4 Not-So-Crazy Questions to Ask Your Doctor
Exuberan by Virtua lead physician Nermin Lazarus, DO, answers some of the typical “not-so-crazy” questions she gets from women about sex, anxiety, skin health, and more.
Early Treatment is Best to Relieve Hemorrhoid Symptoms
Hemorrhoids are a problem not many want to discuss. Some may even avoid seeking professional help because of embarrassment. Learn about the treatments.
The Top 10 Foods For A Healthy Diabetes Diet
A healthy diabetes diet contains a variety of foods that help regulate blood sugar, boost metabolism and keep your hunger in check. Here are the 10 best foods to try.
Keeping the Beat: Advanced Heart Surgery for Aortic Aneurysm
A problem with your aortic root can disrupt the flow of blood throughout your body, leading to shortness of breath, chest pain, and more. Virtua cardiothoracic surgeons are among the few specialists in the region performing valve-sparing aortic root replacement.
Heart-Healthy Summer Recipe: Hummus and Veggies
This creamy hummus is not just heart-healthy – it’s downright delicious! Pair it with your favorite veggies for a nutritious boost.
4 Delicious Heart-Healthy Recipes Perfect for Summer
Searching for easy to make, heart-healthy recipes for your next summer party or BBQ? Discover these creative and guilt-free summer dishes that are perfect for keeping your heart healthy while enjoying tasty seasonal flavors!
Heart Healthy Summer Recipe: Dessert Parfait
If you’re in search of a healthier sweet treat to enjoy this summer, look no further than this heart-healthy parfait. It’s rich and decadent yet surprisingly light, making it the perfect indulgence for warm days!
Heart-Healthy Summer Recipe: Pear and Walnut Salad
Packed with antioxidants and fiber, this heart-healthy salad is as satisfying as it is guilt-free! Light, refreshing, and low in sodium, it’s the perfect summer meal to enjoy any time.
Heart-Healthy Summer Recipe: Terrific Turkey Burgers
Switching to turkey is an easy, low-sodium alternative to beef that tastes just as great. Give this twist on a turkey burger a try for your next gathering!
Atrial Fibrillation and Stroke: What's the Connection?
Atrial fibrillation increases your risk of stroke. Virtua cardiologist Darius Sholevar, MD, explains why, and how nonsurgical treatments to restore your heart’s rhythm.
Local Pastor Makes Kidney Health Mission of Ministry
Chronic kidney disease is not stopping Pastor Derek Gatling from serving the community. He has made health a focus of his ministry.
Managing Pregnancy for Mothers With Heart Conditions
Discover how today's advances in maternal-fetal medicine make it possible for women with heart conditions to have healthy pregnancies.
Heart Healthy Recipe: Basil Pesto Pasta With Seared Vegetables
Homemade pesto is a great option when it comes to making heart-healthy food choices. Try this pasta recipe for a delicious and healthy meal.
Heart Healthy Recipe Chocolate Avocado Chia Pudding
Satisfy your sweet tooth without sacrificing flavor with this pudding that includes avocado and chia seeds, giving this decadent dessert a sneaky, heart-healthy boost.
Keep Your Heart Rhythm in Check With Your Smartwatch
Smartwatches started out as a great way to track your exercise. Now, they can help monitor your heart health. Virtua cardiologist Aatish Garg, MD, explains how.
Mind Your Meds for Blood Pressure Risks
If you have high blood pressure, it’s important to know what’s in over-the-counter medications and the effects they can have on your heart health.
Magic Pill for Heart Health? Cut 300 Calories a Day
A new study found that consuming just 300 fewer calories—the equivalent of six Oreo cookies or three Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups—each day can help protect your heart and curb your diabetes risk.
3 Smart Ways to Boost Your Heart Health
Your heart is the hardest working muscle in your body. With this wholehearted advice, you can keep it healthy and strong throughout your life.
3 Best Exercises For Heart Health
Whether you exercise to shed pounds, relieve stress, or live healthier, here are some of the best exercises you can do to help your heart health by improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure.
Get Your Heart Pumping With These 25 Workout Songs
One of the best ways to stay heart healthy is to add some aerobic exercises to your weekly routine. We put together this blood-pumping, heart-thumping, pulse-pounding playlist to help you get moving.
Your Chest Pain: Heartburn, Heart Attack, or Something Else?
The burning sensation in your chest after eating a big meal is probably a passing case of heartburn. But it could be something else that should be checked by a doctor.
3 Heart Healthy Recipes to Win Valentines Day
No matter how you're celebrating Valentine's Day, you can treat yourself to delicious, heart-healthy food with these recipes.
How Work and Home Stress Can Affect You
While we can’t always take away stress, how we deal with it matters. Learn how to tame your stress and positively impact your health.
Why Improving Your Health Is Going To The Dogs And Cats
Bonding with pets can have positive effects on your physical and mental well-being, including improving your cardiovascular health. Learn how your pet can get your heart pumping.
Why Younger Women Need Start NOW To Safeguard Their Hearts From Heart Attacks
New research shows that younger women in the U.S. are experiencing heart attacks at a higher rate than they were 20 years ago. See how you can take steps now to safeguard your heart.
Can You Die of a Broken Heart?
Cases of broken heart syndrome—sudden, intense chest pain triggered by an emotionally stressful event—are on the rise. Here’s what you should know.
What’s the Difference Between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes?
Understanding the roles of glucose and insulin are key to unlocking the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes—and the special treatment each requires.
Mitral Valve Surgery Opens Doors for Improved Quality of Life
Virtua cardiothoracic surgeons use advanced, minimally invasive procedures to treat mitral valve conditions, keeping you and your blood headed in the right direction.
6 Healthy Habits to Start in Your 20s for Better Lifelong Health
These expert tips will help you establish healthy habits in your 20s that can help you crush your health goals now and in the future. Get started today.
Do You Have a Fatty Heart?
There’s usually no hiding from fat. But a type of fat we can’t see can harm our heart health. Virtua cardiologist Thomas Galski, DO, has steps you can take to keep going strong.
Get Pumped! Assist Devices Can Improve Heart Failure Symptoms
Heart failure can leave you weak and unable to take part in the activities you enjoy. Left ventricular assist devices, or LVADs can improve symptoms and keep you out of the hospital.
A Cardiologists Advice on Heart-saving Emergency Cardiac Care
It's understandable why people are afraid to go to the ER during this pandemic. But, if you have the symptoms of a cardiac emergency, it's vital—and safe—to get immediate help.
Virtua Doctor’s Experience Is a Warning for All About COVID-19 and Strokes
Virtua cardiologist Troy Randle, DO, didn't think he would get COVID-19—but he did. He certainly didn't expect the life-threatening stroke that followed.
You May Feel Fine, but Gregory Says "Don't Skip Your Medical Care"
For a large family in Beverly, Burlington County, doctor visits were sometimes too expensive. But they learned the importance of regular medical care after a cancer diagnosis and cardiac issues.
In Sickness and in Health: Couples Often Share Heart Disease Risk
Couples share a lot more than romance. They often have the same behaviors and risk factors that can lead to heart disease. Cardiologist Michael Horwitz, DO, offers three ways to team up for your health.
"Reduce Your Heart Disease Risk With a Plant-based Diet"
Plant-based diets rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and legumes can lower your risk for heart disease. Virtua cardiologist Rozy Dunham, MD, FACC, can help you make the switch.
Hybrid Robotic Heart Surgery and Valve Replacement Restores Quality of Life
A complex robotic-assisted coronary artery bypass and TAVR helped carpenter Edward Owens shape his future.
Can Marijuana Hurt Your Heart Health?
Cannabis is now legal in many states but that doesn't mean it's good for your health. Virtua cardiologist Donald Orth, MD, explains the risks and how it can affect your heart.
6 Tips for Restoring Your Heart Rhythm
AFib is the most common type of abnormal heart rhythm. Virtua cardiologist Dr. Delcine Sood explains how medication and lifestyle changes, and procedures if needed, can help you manage AFib.
Eat Smart for Your Heart
Knowing which foods to eat more of and which foods to limit is a powerful way to prevent heart disease and improve your overall health. Here are six easy ways to eat smart for your heart.
Cardiac Rehab: Strengthening Your Heart After Leaving the Hospital
If you've had a heart attack, cardiac rehab is an important part of the recovery process. Through medically supervised exercise, lifestyle education, and support, you can return to your daily activities.
Your Heart Needs A Good Nights Sleep
Struggling with sleep? Lack of sleep can raise your risk for heart attack, stroke, heart failure, depression, and other health issues. Virtua cardiologist David Lawrence, MD, offers tips to catch more Z's.
Are You at Risk for AAA—the Silent Killer?
The aorta is the largest blood vessel in your body. If an aneurysm, or weakness, in the aortic wall bursts, it can lead to a life-threatening emergency. Learn about the risks and available treatments at Virtua.
The Cardio Oncology Team Protects Your Heart During Cancer Treatment
Cardio-oncology combines the expertise of cardiologists and oncologists to help protect the hearts of people undergoing cancer treatment. Learn more.
Get Relief From Painful Varicose Veins This Summer
For people who have varicose veins, especially women, the season to wear shorts and swimsuits can bring pain and embarrassment. Get a leg up on pain relief with these tips.
Exercise Your Way to a Stronger Heart
Today, we know that exercise is safe for patients with heart failure and can help relieve symptoms. Robert Mohapatra, MD, Virtua Cardiologist, shares tips to be more active with heart failure.
Fish Oil: A Good Catch or a Scam?
Millions of Americans take fish oil supplements to help prevent heart disease. But do they really work? Talya Spivack, MD, Virtua Health cardiologist, offers some insight.
My Heart Seems to Skip a Beat - Should I Be Worried?
Most heart palpitations can be explained by external factors. But they can also be a sign of a potentially serious condition. Virtua Cardiologist Hafeza Shaikh, DO, offers more information.
Menu Planning? Try These 5 Heart-smart Substitutions
Food can be medicine and plays a big role in keeping our hearts healthy. Erin Wickersham, RD, Virtua Health registered dietitian, offers five ways you can start improving your heart health with food.
Heart-Healthy Recipe: Maple Orange Salmon With Mango Salsa
Salmon is packed with heart-healthy omega 3 fatty acids and tends to be more flavorful than other fish. Try this recipe for a delicious and healthy fish dish.
Do Not Wait to Get Help When a Stroke or Heart Attack Strikes
Fear of contracting COVID-19 should NOT stop you from seeking emergency medical care—especially if you're feeling the symptoms of a heart attack or stroke.
4 Reasons Why Heart Patients Should Follow COVID 19 Safety Guidelines
If you have heart disease, you should be extra vigilant in following COVID-19 prevention guidelines.
Young Mother Finds Support for Anxiety After Rare Cardiac Event
Susan Campbell experienced a rare, but life-threatening, cardiac issue that was treated successfully. While she regained full health, she worried it could happen again. See how she got support.
Is Your Heart Age Older Than You?
You can calculate your “heart age” by tallying up your risk factors for heart attack and stroke. That number shows the years of strain you've added to your heart.
Heart Healthy Recipe: Mediterranean Shrimp Salad
Eating smart doesn’t mean eating bland food. This tasty recipe is packed with bold flavor, and it’s low in fat.
All for Bear: Dan Loses Weight to Be His Son’s Kidney Donor
Dan Shaw is losing weight using the new weight-loss medication Zepbound so he can be his young son’s kidney donor.
‘Astronomical Changes’: Brain Stimulation Therapy Lifts Ashley’s Depression
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a safe and effective treatment for people living with severe depression or bipolar disorder.
Forget Dieting: Find Your Eating Pattern
A consistent, balanced diet sets the groundwork for a healthy life—helping to keep your weight down and managing your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.
Hyperbaric Wound Therapy Puts Joette Back in Motion
Advanced treatments like special dressings, intravenous antibiotics, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy successfully treated Joette’s nonhealing wound, allowing her to return to her active life.
Robotic Hernia Repair Renews David's Active Lifestyle
An inguinal hernia landed athlete David Monk on the sidelines. Robotic-assisted hernia repair surgery got him back in the game.
Roxanne’s Journey to Finding Health and Happiness Through Bariatric Surgery
After years of struggling with her weight, Roxanne Ferguson made the courageous decision to undergo bariatric surgery. Now, 125 pounds lighter, she shares her story of transformation, resilience, and the joy of rediscovering life.
Time Is Brain: Know Your Stroke Symptoms
During a stroke, every minute counts. Recognizing the early signs can mean the difference between recovery and permanent damage.
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