After heart attack, John Kuhn finds strength in cardiac rehab

Former Abilene Independent School District Superintendent John Kuhn, EdD, credits the team at Hendrick Medical Center South (HMCS) with saving his life after suffering a serious heart attack December 30. But, it's the post-heart attack care that's given him a new lease on life.

Once the crisis passed, Kuhn knew he had work to do. Hendrick Cardiac Rehabilitation at the HMCS campus helped him rebuild his strength and learn how to take better care of his heart long term.

"Cardiac rehab isn't just exercise," Kuhn said. "It's education, and it's almost like a family."

During 36 sessions, Kuhn worked with cardiac rehab staff and other patients recovering from serious heart events. The program combines monitored exercise with education about heart health, nutrition, stress and lifestyle changes.

By the end, Kuhn said he was breathing easier, had more energy and felt stronger. Just as important, he better understood how daily choices can help lower his risk.

"I'm glad that for the rest of my life, which I hope will be a very long life, I know how to take care of myself," Kuhn said. "I kind of owe that to the folks at Hendrick."