Episode 60: Cardiac Rehab After Open Heart Surgery

Imperfect Heart NewsPod: From Patient to Advocate—Kaylin Kellert Goes Red for Women with the American Heart Association

In this Imperfect Heart NewsPod, I reconnect with Kaylin Kellert—two years removed from her myocardial bridge unroofing surgery and now living a life she describes as “night and day” from before. Kaylin shares an honest update on her recovery journey, including the ups and downs that came with it, and the sense of peace she’s found on the other side. But this conversation isn’t just about where she’s been—it’s about what she’s doing now. After a chance moment at an American Heart Association Heart Walk in Austin, Kaylin was nominated as a Woman of Impact for the Go Red for Women campaign. What followed is a powerful example of turning personal experience into purpose. We talk about: * Why cardiovascular disease remains the #1 killer of women * The long-standing misconceptions that heart disease primarily affects men * How women’s symptoms are too often dismissed or misdiagnosed * The role of advocacy, awareness, and funding in changing outcomes * And how Kaylin is using her voice—and her story—to make a difference This episode is both an update and an invitation: to listen, to learn, and to support a cause that impacts one in three women. Why It Matters Heart disease doesn’t always look the way we expect—and for women, that misunderstanding can be deadly. Kaylin’s story reinforces a critical truth: awareness leads to advocacy, and advocacy leads to better outcomes. When survivors step forward, they don’t just tell their story—they help change the system. This conversation highlights the importance of: * Recognizing symptoms earlier * Taking women’s health concerns seriously * Funding research and education * And building a community that supports one another through it all For the myocardial bridge community and beyond, this is a reminder that your voice matters—and that sharing it can save lives. Let’s help Kaylin help us help others! Here is the link to her “Go Red For Women” donation page Kaylin’s Go Red Link [https://www2.heart.org/site/TR?px=30967155&fr_id=12890&pg=personal&s_src=nuclavismobile&s_subsrc=Nucl_iosM_FdrInTkTk] . Unfortunately, I can't show the QR code in this platform but the link works just the same.   Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Kaylin & her journey 01:00 – Life two years after unroofing surgery 02:00 – The reality of recovery: ups, downs, and resilience 03:00 – A chance moment at the Heart Walk 04:00 – Becoming a Woman of Impact 05:00 – The truth about heart disease in women 06:00 – Misdiagnosis, dismissal, and systemic gaps 07:00 – Why awareness and advocacy matter 08:00 – How the Go Red for Women campaign works 09:00 – Supporting the mission and getting involved 10:00 – A message to the myocardial bridge community 11:00 – Closing thoughts and call to action If you like what you heard, please give us a positive review on whichever app you're using, like and follow us so you never miss an episode. Also, please visit the website, MyImperfectHeart.com [https://www.myimperfectheart.com/episodes/] and sign up to our database as we work to build a more connected, informed and supportive network of the Imperfect Heart community. Thanks for listening and thank you for your support.   If you don't yet have your very own copy of the book: Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges [https://www.amazon.com/Imperfect-Heart-Stories-Myocardial-Bridges/dp/B0DZ2DQBS9/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0], you can find it anywhere in paperback, tablet or audiobook versions. And, yes, that's me doing the audiobook version as well. :) I hope you enjoy it.

Episode 62: Denied, Then Delivered: The Rest of Pete Furman's Story Post-Open Heart Surgery. How He MADE It Happen.

When I first spoke with Pete Furman in Episode 36, his health was failing, his options felt limited, and the road ahead was anything but clear. He was living with a myocardial bridge, drug therapy wasn’t working, and insurance had just denied his preferred surgeon. Everything felt urgent — and uncertain. In this follow-up conversation, Pete returns to share what happened next. We talk about how he navigated insurance denial, found a local cardiac surgeon willing to listen and learn, and ultimately underwent open-heart surgery to fully unroof his myocardial bridge. Pete walks us through the questions he asked, the promises he insisted on, and how self-advocacy became a matter of survival. But this episode goes far beyond the operating room. Pete opens up about the emotional toll on his family, the anxiety leading up to surgery, and recording messages “just in case.” He also shares a surprising post-surgery discovery — that part of his ongoing struggle wasn’t his heart at all, but how he was breathing — and how retraining his body helped him reclaim strength he hadn’t felt in years. Today, more than a year after surgery, Pete is back on his bike, training again, and setting his sights on racing in 2026. If you’re facing a myocardial bridge diagnosis, wrestling with insurance, or wondering whether it’s possible to truly get your life back, this conversation is proof that it is — even when the path looks imperfect. Pete's Doctor in Arizona was Dr. Modesto Colon with Phoenix Cardiac Surgery  Chapter Timestamps00:00 – Welcome Back & Where Pete’s Story Left Off Pete returns to Imperfect Heart and recaps his diagnosis, failed drug therapy, and the critical decisions he faced after Episode 36. 08:45 – Insurance Denial & Finding the Right Surgeon How a denied robotic surgery led Pete to a local, in-network cardiac surgeon — and the questions that mattered most. 24:30 – The Surgery Decision: Sternotomy vs Robotic Why Pete chose open-heart surgery, what “fully unroofing” meant to him, and the promises he required before saying yes. 41:10 – Fear, Family, and Facing the Unknown The emotional weight of declining health, preparing his family, and recording messages “just in case.” 57:40 – Recovery, Setbacks, and a Surprising Breakthrough Post-surgery struggles, breathing dysfunction, and how retraining his body changed everything. 1:15:20 – Life One Year Later: Riding, Racing, and Hope Pete’s return to the bike, future goals, advice for others starting this journey, and why advocacy matters. If you like what you heard, please give us a positive review on whichever app you're using, like and follow us so you never miss an episode. Also, please visit the website, MyImperfectHeart.com [https://www.myimperfectheart.com/episodes/] and sign up to our database as we work to build a more connected, informed and supportive network of the Imperfect Heart community. Thanks for listening and thank you for your support.   If you don't yet have your very own copy of the book: Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges [https://www.amazon.com/Imperfect-Heart-Stories-Myocardial-Bridges/dp/B0DZ2DQBS9/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0], you can find it anywhere in paperback, tablet or audiobook versions. And, yes, that's me doing the audiobook version as well. :) I hope you enjoy it.

Episode 61: Coronary Artery Bypass Advantage - Dr. Christopher Kwon's Non-Traditional Approach to Myocardial Bridge Unroofing.

This may be one of those episodes that could be considered controversial and I hope it does prompt questions. Dr. Christopher Kwon is a highly experienced cardiac surgeon whose practice in Lake Havasu, Arizona has brought him face-to-face with a growing number of patients living with symptomatic Myocardial Bridges. What made this conversation so compelling is Dr. Kwon’s dual approach—he doesn’t just perform the standard unroofing procedure. He also chooses to bypass the artery in the same operation, giving his patients the greatest chance for long-term relief, in his expert opinion. As he says, it’s a “belts and suspenders” approach. We talk about everything related to the bridge unroofing procedure. * The fear patients have around sternotomy, * The diagnostic process including provocative testing, * The reality of competitive flow in grafts, * The insurance coding challenges that can delay care, * And, perhaps most importantly, how critical it is to advocate for yourself. Whether you're a patient, a caregiver, or a provider trying to better understand this often-dismissed condition, I believe this episode can give you clarity, confidence, and hope. In This Episode, We Cover: * Dr. Kwon’s path from aspiring engineer to heart surgeon * Why sternotomy isn’t as scary as it sounds * His unique method: unroofing + bypass for added protection * When provocative testing is useful—but not always required * What to know about LIMA grafts and long-term outcomes * Why some cardiologists still dismiss this condition—and what he tells them * The importance of second opinions and listening to your gut * How insurance coding can make or break your surgery approval * Plus... Dr. Kwon’s life outside the OR, including his two standard poodles ???? Guest Info: Dr. Christopher Kwon Cardiac Surgeon – Havasu Regional Medical Center, Arizona Phone: 928-453-0890 Contact info: https://www.havasuregional.com/find-a-doctor/provider/1225074867 Resources: * Website: www.myimperfectheart.com * Book: Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges – Now available on Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/s?k=imperfect+heart&crid=1L7X9VGUKFR4K&sprefix=imperfect+hear%2Caps%2C187&ref=nb_sb_noss_2] or any digital platform where you find your books/ebooks/audio books. Chapter Summaries (00:00) Cardiac Surgeon Discusses Myocardial Bridges Dr. Kwon's journey to becoming a cardiac surgeon, his 21-year career, advancements in cardiac surgery, and treating myocardial bridges. (11:34) Bypass Graft and Competitive Flow Discussion Nature's intricacies of bypass grafts, specifically LEMA and its interaction with competitive flow, surgical strategies, and decision-making processes in complex cardiac surgeries. (20:14) Discussion on Myocardial Bridge Treatment Myocardial bridging treatment, stenting and surgery, sudden cardiac death, patient self-advocacy, and maintaining well-being through family, pets, If you like what you heard, please give us a positive review on whichever app you're using, like and follow us so you never miss an episode. Also, please visit the website, MyImperfectHeart.com [https://www.myimperfectheart.com/episodes/] and sign up to our database as we work to build a more connected, informed and supportive network of the Imperfect Heart community. Thanks for listening and thank you for your support.   If you don't yet have your very own copy of the book: Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges [https://www.amazon.com/Imperfect-Heart-Stories-Myocardial-Bridges/dp/B0DZ2DQBS9/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0], you can find it anywhere in paperback, tablet or audiobook versions. And, yes, that's me doing the audiobook version as well. :) I hope you enjoy it.

Episode 60: Cardiac Rehab After Open Heart Surgery

Recovering from a heart surgery or cardiac event is never simple—the questions, fears, and “what-ifs” can feel overwhelming. That’s where cardiac rehab steps in, providing a safe, structured, and supportive bridge between the hospital and a confident return to life. In this episode, I'm speaking with Kimberly Lynch, a clinical exercise physiologist at Sutter Roseville Medical Center Cardiac Rehab. Kim is also a Leader of Impact with the American Heart Association which you'll hear a little more about in the episode. Kimberly explains what really happens inside cardiac rehab: monitored exercise, personalized treatment plans, nutrition guidance, and emotional support that helps patients rebuild both body and spirit. Together, we explore the fears patients face, the life-changing impact of rehab, and why this whole-person approach is so essential for recovery. Kimberly also shares her personal passion for advocacy and fundraising, and how community support powers lifesaving research and education. If you or someone you love is navigating recovery after a heart event, this conversation offers clarity, encouragement, and hope on your journey to your "new" normal post surgery. Build confidence and regain the life you choose by learning and understanding what to expect from cardia rehab. Learn more or support Kimberly’s American Heart Association campaign by checking the link HERE [https://www2.heart.org/site/TR?fr_id=12544&pg=team&team_id=913951] To learn more about cardiac rehab at Sutter Roseville Medical Center visit their website HERE. [https://www.sutterhealth.org/services/cardiac-rehabilitation] To reach kimberly via email: kimberly.lynch@sutterhealth.org Chapter Summaries: 00:00 Introduction to Cardiac Rehab 00:40 Welcome to Imperfect Heart 02:04 Guest Introduction: Kimberly Lynch 02:57 American Heart Association Fundraising 06:36 Understanding Cardiac Rehab Programs 08:55 Personal Experiences and Challenges 15:34 Monitoring and Safety in Cardiac Rehab 25:42 Holistic Approach: Nutrition and Mental Health 28:25 The Emotional Impact of Heart Procedures 28:52 Starting a Support Group for Heart Patients 30:15 The Power of Shared Experiences 33:08 Graduation and Moving Forward 35:11 Virtual Cardiac Rehab Options 36:52 Insurance Coverage for Cardiac Rehab 39:23 Personal Stories of Recovery 45:41 The Importance of Cardiac Rehab 48:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts If you like what you heard, please give us a positive review on whichever app you're using, like and follow us so you never miss an episode. Also, please visit the website, MyImperfectHeart.com [https://www.myimperfectheart.com/episodes/] and sign up to our database as we work to build a more connected, informed and supportive network of the Imperfect Heart community. Thanks for listening and thank you for your support.   If you don't yet have your very own copy of the book: Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges [https://www.amazon.com/Imperfect-Heart-Stories-Myocardial-Bridges/dp/B0DZ2DQBS9/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0], you can find it anywhere in paperback, tablet or audiobook versions. And, yes, that's me doing the audiobook version as well. :) I hope you enjoy it.

Episode 59: Cath Lab Process and Procedures for Myocardial Bridge Testing.

This episode I sit down with Vesta Hurlbutt, a cardiac cath lab x-ray tech, functional nutritionist, and host of the Open Heart Healing podcast. This conversation becomes a unique blend of medical insight and personal storytelling, centered around Myocardial Bridges and the power of advocacy—both in the hospital and in life. Vesta offers behind-the-scenes perspective on what happens inside the cath lab, what patients should expect, and why self-advocacy is critical in a system that often overlooks certain heart conditions—especially in women. She also shares how her own healing journey led her to launch Open Heart Healing, a podcast about emotional transformation, self-love, and reclaiming personal power. We'll also explore how their chance connection at a podcast convention turned into a powerful reminder that there are no coincidences—just timely, even serendipitous conversations waiting to happen. IN THIS EPISODE: -What really happens in the cardiac cath lab -How myocardial bridges are identified ( and often dismissed) -The importance of IVUS and other imaging tools -Tips for patients prepping for a heart cath -Vesta's journey from healthcare worker to holistic healing advocate You can learn more about Vesta: -Host: Open Heart Healing Podcast [https://vesta-hurlbutt.mykajabi.com/open-heart-healing-b4452da6-8804-4fa4-8c70-6f89b0d7d9b5] -Email: vesta@vitalitywithvesta.com -Instagram: @openhearthealing Chapter Timestamps (00:00) Myocardial Bridge and Heart Health (13:42) Cardiologists Discuss Heart Bridges (18:39) Advocating for Heart Health Awareness (22:32) Healing Through Holistic Health Perspectives (31:01) Journey to Heart Health Order Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges - Available on Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/s?k=imperfect+heart+book&crid=4FQ0WGYWIOWB&sprefix=imper%2Caps%2C214&ref=nb_sb_ss_saint-en-prefix-wq_1_5] If you like what you heard, please give us a positive review on whichever app you're using, like and follow us so you never miss an episode. Also, please visit the website, MyImperfectHeart.com [https://www.myimperfectheart.com/episodes/] and sign up to our database as we work to build a more connected, informed and supportive network of the Imperfect Heart community. Thanks for listening and thank you for your support.   If you don't yet have your very own copy of the book: Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges [https://www.amazon.com/Imperfect-Heart-Stories-Myocardial-Bridges/dp/B0DZ2DQBS9/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0], you can find it anywhere in paperback, tablet or audiobook versions. And, yes, that's me doing the audiobook version as well. :) I hope you enjoy it.