News

“Heart disease is a major problem in our country. It is the leading cause of death for both men and women," explains Tammy Thompson, M.S., RCEP, Cardiac Rehab Director at Prairie du Chien Memorial Hospital. "According to the American Heart Association about 715,000 Americans have a heart attack every year. About 600,000 people die from heart disease in the United States each year—that’s 1 out of every 4 deaths. Yes, these statistics are alarming, but there is good news—heart disease is preventable and controllable.”

In recognition of February-American Heart Month, heart disease will be the focus of a free community education program sponsored by Prairie du Chien Memorial Hospital on Tuesday evening, February 26. The evening will begin with a light heart-healthy meal at 5 p.m. prepared by PDCMH’s Nutrition Services staff followed by three 15 minute presentations with helpful information to improve heart health. There will also be a time for discussion and questions.

The program’s featured speakers are PdC Memorial Hospital’s healthcare professionals Tammy Thompson, M.S., Exercise Physiologist; Pamela Myhre, Nurse Practitioner; and Romi Pattison, Registered Dietitian. “As an exercise physiologist, I know the importance of exercise in maintaining and improving health and overall quality of life. It is well proven that regular exercise is beneficial in protecting you from heart disease and stroke by preventing and controlling risk factors for heart disease. Exercise also improves your mood!” Tammy Thompson said. Tammy has been a member of the healthcare team at PDC Memorial Hospital for over 8 years.

“We all know that stress affects our lives, but what does it do to our hearts? And why do I need all these medications? This portion of our program will help you get a handle on stress and understand the importance of medications used for healthy hearts!” explained Pamela Myhre, Nurse Practitioner. Pamela joined the hospital staff last year as a member of the Hospice team.

Romi Pattison has served as the hospital dietitian for nearly two years. She will share tips on nutrition. She said, “A healthy diet, as a part of a healthy lifestyle, is essential to reducing our risk of heart disease. We all know that what we choose to eat effects our weight, but it is surprising how many other ways our nourishment affects our bodies! The nutrition part of the Heart Smart event will focus on how the foods we eat can raise or lower our risk for heart disease.”

Reservations are encouraged to help hospital staff plan for the meal, but they are not required. Individuals planning to attend are asked to call or Tammy Thompson at 608-357-2349 or Romi Pattison at 608-357-2219.