American Heart Month: Cardiac Rehab Program provides encouragement

Despite having 11 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren, Bob Tinder has made room for more people in his circle.

While taking part in 36 sessions of Wilson Medical Center’s Cardiac Rehabilitation Program, Bob started to notice a few things: He began to enjoy the workouts needed during his recovery process from a heart attack, and he certainly began to enjoy the company around him.

“I have to speak highly of the ladies that helped me through the cardio process,” Bob said. “They were always fantastic and encouraging. I also met 8-10 other people going through the same thing. I feel like I’m friends with them. Making friends and the socializing portion was my favorite part.”

Bob, 77, graduated from the program in December 2024 after being encouraged to enroll by Wilson Medical Center Cardiologist Dr. Sanjay Cherikuri.

“I was a gym member, but I didn’t use it,” Bob said. “With the Cardio Rehab Program, I was encouraged to go every day I went. I wanted to see what was going on with everyone. I liked interacting with Rose, Zalaya, Taylor and Haley. They are just great do deal with. It felt like personal interaction, and I’m someone who likes to talk. Even after graduation, I still feel energized to do the same things I was doing there.”

By the time Bob graduated, his six-minute walking pace improved by nearly 20 percent. These days, he utilizes stretchbands and a walking pad his kids purchased for him. Bob walks up to 30 minutes every day, and he hopes to increase that timeframe to an hour soon.

“If it weren’t for the program, I don’t know if I would have pursued a primary care physician,” Bob said. “I liked being there and pursuing goals.”