Matthew Tumasz, husband and father of three, was having his routine annual exam when he shared with his doctor that he experienced shortness of breath when he went out for his fitness runs, and he needed to stop more often.
The doctor was familiar with his family heart history—because his doctor is also his brother. The brothers' father died of a heart attack at 56. The doctor himself had some coronary stents implanted a few years ago. He sent Matthew for testing and the results were clear: bypass surgery was required to clear blockages in each of the main arteries.
“I knew what I was getting in to. I used to work in nuclear imaging for cardiac disease. Even though I knew what to expect, it’s still scary.
"Dr. Mark Anderson’s cardiology team was top notch. The care was first rate and everyone looked out for my best interests.
"I walk about four to five times per week for three to four miles at a time to stay in shape. I will likely start running again. I feel great!”