Heart Attack Patient Thankful for Phelps Health Cardiology Care

Don Johnson suffered a heart attack on July 4, 2000, and was treated at a hospital in the St. Louis area. He later came back to Rolla and began receiving care at the Phelps Health Heart and Vascular Center.

His cardiologist (a doctor who specializes in heart care) is Tim Martin, MD, at Phelps Health.

“I go about every six weeks to see him or anytime I have a problem,” said Johnson, a Rolla resident and former president of the Rolla Area Chamber of Commerce.

“I’m a Chicago Cubs fan, and he (Dr. Martin) likes the St. Louis Cardinals,” Johnson noted.

Despite the difference in which baseball teams they root for, Johnson said Dr. Martin and the other providers, nurses and staff are friendly and have provided excellent care to him while at Phelps Health over the years.

“I will be 84 in October and have been a patient at Phelps Health for 20 years,” Johnson said.

“It’s important for patients to find the right provider for their care needs,” Dr. Martin said. “By working with your provider, you can make a difference in your health.”

Before his heart attack, Johnson said he never had any previous heart problems, but he does have a family history of heart disease.

Since his heart attack 20 years ago, Johnson has had two stents placed. Stents are small, wire mesh tubes that can be placed in a person’s artery. By keeping the artery open, stents can help reduce the chance of blockages that can lead to a heart attack.

Earlier this year, Dr. Martin and his care team recommended that Johnson get a pacemaker to help with an irregular heartbeat. A pacemaker is a small battery-operated device that helps the heart beat in a regular rhythm.

Johnson is doing well since getting his pacemaker, and he is appreciative of his care team at Phelps Health for all they have done to improve his quality of life.

“When you come through the front door, you are always greeted by friendly faces,” Johnson said. “The staff at Phelps Health really care about their patients, and that’s why I continue to go back.”

Even when Johnson was hospitalized, he recalled how his providers and care staff went the extra mile to make him feel special.

One time, after being in the hospital for a few days, Johnson was transferred to the rehabilitation unit.

“I remember one day, I was wearing my Cubs shirt, and the staff came in and presented me with a Cardinals banner they all signed,” Johnson said. “It’s a very friendly situation.”