Heart surgery survivor turned volunteer Barb Skilbeck has likened the time she spent at South West Healthcare’s Cardiac Rehabilitation Clinic to feeling like she was home.
After experiencing breathlessness and an aching jaw Mrs Skilbeck was referred by her local GP straight to Geelong where an angiogram discovered a blockage a stent alone wouldn’t be enough to correct.
Post surgery Mrs Skilbeck returned to Warrnambool with a referral to South West Healthcare’s Cardiac Rehabilitation Clinic which she claims was one of the best things that happened during her recovery.
“An initial phone call with Cardiac Rehabilitation Consultant Anne was such a supportive welcome, I felt like I was home,” said Mrs Skilbeck.
“One of the great things about the program is that you’re meeting up with other people who’ve been through similar circumstances, not all the same but similar, having all had significant heart events.
“Time in the gym was terrific, it allowed us to share our experiences individually on a personal level as well as having the benefit from the overall support of the program,” said Mrs Skilbeck.
Since completing the seven-week rehabilitation program Mrs Skilbeck has returned to the program as a volunteer to help others through the feelings of nerves and hesitation about recovery.
Mrs Skilbeck also helps guide attendees through the education side of rehabilitation that includes the importance of diet, exercise, knowing your risk factors, the structure of the heart and providing emotional support which are so important for recovery.
Our Cardiac Rehabilitation Clinic aims to help people with heart disease live independent and active lives. It encourages lifestyle changes that may further reduce attendees’ risk of heart problems.
If you have had treatment for a cardiac event or surgery in a public or private metropolitan or Geelong hospital a referral is usually sent to our team as part of the discharge planning process.
Your GP or other specialists can refer you or you can self-refer to the service by contacting 5563 4000 or email: intake@swh.net.au or visit us at Warrnambool Community Health Koroit Street.