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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 SurgeryChapter Timestamps00:00 – Welcome Back & Where Pete’s Story Left OffPete 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 SurgeonHow 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 RoboticWhy 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 UnknownThe emotional weight of declining health, preparing his family, and recording messages “just in case.”57:40 – Recovery, Setbacks, and a Surprising BreakthroughPost-surgery struggles, breathing dysfunction, and how retraining his body changed everything.1:15:20 – Life One Year Later: Riding, Racing, and HopePete’s return to the bike, future goals, advice for others starting this journey, and why advocacy matters.
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 surgeonWhy sternotomy isn’t as scary as it soundsHis unique method: unroofing + bypass for added protectionWhen provocative testing is useful—but not always requiredWhat to know about LIMA grafts and long-term outcomesWhy some cardiologists still dismiss this condition—and what he tells themThe importance of second opinions and listening to your gutHow insurance coding can make or break your surgery approvalPlus... Dr. Kwon’s life outside the OR, including his two standard poodles ????Guest Info:Dr. Christopher KwonCardiac Surgeon – Havasu Regional Medical Center, ArizonaPhone: 928-453-0890Contact info: https://www.havasuregional.com/find-a-doctor/provider/1225074867Resources:Website: www.myimperfectheart.comBook: Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges – Now available on Amazon or any digital platform where you find your books/ebooks/audio books.Chapter Summaries(00:00) Cardiac Surgeon Discusses Myocardial BridgesDr. 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 DiscussionNature'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 TreatmentMyocardial bridging treatment, stenting and surgery, sudden cardiac death, patient self-advocacy, and maintaining well-being through family, pets, and nature.(34:52) Bypass and Unroofing Procedure DiscussionDr. Kwon shares insights on unroofing bypass surgery, making complex medical information accessible and concludes with a light-hearted exchange about his dogs.
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 HERETo learn more about cardiac rehab at Sutter Roseville Medical Center visit their website HERE.To reach kimberly via email: kimberly.lynch@sutterhealth.orgChapter Summaries:00:00 Introduction to Cardiac Rehab00:40 Welcome to Imperfect Heart02:04 Guest Introduction: Kimberly Lynch02:57 American Heart Association Fundraising06:36 Understanding Cardiac Rehab Programs08:55 Personal Experiences and Challenges15:34 Monitoring and Safety in Cardiac Rehab25:42 Holistic Approach: Nutrition and Mental Health28:25 The Emotional Impact of Heart Procedures28:52 Starting a Support Group for Heart Patients30:15 The Power of Shared Experiences33:08 Graduation and Moving Forward35:11 Virtual Cardiac Rehab Options36:52 Insurance Coverage for Cardiac Rehab39:23 Personal Stories of Recovery45:41 The Importance of Cardiac Rehab48:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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 advocateYou can learn more about Vesta:-Host: Open Heart Healing Podcast-Email: vesta@vitalitywithvesta.com-Instagram: @openhearthealingChapter 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 HealthOrder Imperfect Heart: Stories of Myocardial Bridges - Available on Amazon
Episode 58: Provocative Testing for Myocardial Bridges and Effect on the Heart. Encore Edition.
This is an encore episode as I believe we cannot stress the significance enough for this type of testing to confirm the effects of a myocardial bridge on the patient. The more that's known, the more likely it is that the proper course of treatment can be taken. If you missed it the first time, don't miss it this time. This is a must listen episode.Unlock the secrets of properly understanding and diagnosing myocardial bridges with insight from Dr. Jeffrey Fowler, a leading interventional cardiologist at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Our conversation promises to illuminate the often perplexing process of diagnosing these cardiac anomalies and their impact on heart function. Through the lens of minimally invasive procedures and advanced imaging techniques like coronary CT angiograms, Dr. Fowler demystifies why myocardial bridges are not always the main culprits behind chest pain and the definitive testing now being done to ascertain the significance of the myocardial bridge.We're going to explore the intricate world of invasive testing, as we detail the provocative testing process used to evaluate myocardial bridges, their severity and their contribution to angina, or chest pain. Dr. Fowler explains how starting with an empiric trial of medications can lead to more invasive procedures like heart catheterization if necessary. Learn about the steps of the provocative test and the role of acetylcholine in testing for endothelial dysfunction and vasospasm, with reassurances about the safety and reversibility of these tests. This episode is our first on the detail and best practice for diagnosis of the bridge through the provocative test we've heard so much about. It's meant for the education and knowledge for both patients and professionals, enhancing understanding of the nuanced approaches in relatively rare process of diagnosis.Celebrate the spirit of collaboration among cardiology experts as Dr. Fowler shares the necessity of communication and advice. He's consulted with many others along the way including Dr. Shaw at Yale and Dr. Tremmell at Stanford, highlighting real-world case studies like that of patient David Vollmer. Join me in this compelling narrative of breakthroughs and dedication in the realm of cardiac care, and discover how ongoing advancements promise a brighter future for patients everywhere.You can email Dr. Fowler directly at: fowlerja@upmc.eduTo reach Dr. Fowler call 412-647-6000 and ask for him specifically. Or you can visit the hospital website HEREYou can learn more about the Microvascular Network in the link HEREChapter Summaries:(00:00) Understanding Myocardial Bridge Diagnosis ProcessInterventional cardiologist explains use of coronary CT angiogram to detect and manage myocardial bridges in chest pain cases.(10:04) Invasive Testing for Heart ConditionsDiagnosing and treating myocardial bridges through coronary CTA and provocative testing, including an empiric trial of medications and invasive procedures.(22:05) Collaboration in Myocardial Bridge DiagnosisLeading cardiologists collaborate to refine best practices for treating myocardial bridges, using personalized approaches and expert insights.(27:47) Imaging and Diagnosis of Myocardial BridgeAcetylcholine, dobutamine, cold saline, and adenosine are used to assess endothelial and microvascular function in chest pain and exertional symptoms.(37:07) Complex Testing and Treatment OptionsEvaluating myocardial bridges using diagnostic tests to guide surgical interventions, while balancing personal wellness in a high-stakes medical career.(49:16) Cardiac Surgeon Discusses Myocardial BridgesDr. Bonnati's unroofing procedure for David at UPMC, with insights from Dr. Fowler and upcoming perspectives from Dr. Bonatti, enriched by David's journey.
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