1 April 2011
Two brand new treadmills at Epsom Hospital are helping patients with heart conditions to get back on their feet and return to fitness.
The new treadmills, which were funded by the Trust’s annual capital development programme at a cost of £5,500, are now firmly in place in the hospital’s cardiac rehabilitation gym. The gym is part of the cardiac rehabilitation service, which helps patients who are recovering from heart problems to learn more about their condition and take part in fitness classes.
Vivienne Casey, clinical nurse specialist for the cardiac rehabilitation service, said: "Most people wouldn’t expect to find a treadmill in a hospital, but they are vital pieces of equipment for us and are fundamental to the services we offer.
"From heart attacks to quadruple bypass surgery, we are here to help people return to fitness following a range of heart-related problems. The treadmills are a real boost to the service and help us to provide a tailor-made fitness programme for each of our patients."
Steve Critchley, from Leatherhead, was aged just 49 when he suffered a major heart attack in late 2009. Once discharged from hospital, Steve signed up to the cardiac rehabilitation programme and underwent an eight-week course of fitness and education.
Steve said: "Cardiac rehabilitation is a fantastic service. Having a heart attack is a terrifying experience and you come out of the other side feeling like a different person. That’s why the service is so important – it gives you the chance to meet like-minded people who have had a similar experience and there’s a great sense of camaraderie. It also gives you the chance to educate yourself about how to get better, what you should be aiming for and how to get life back on the right track. It’s a vital service and I’m pleased to hear that they’ve got some brand new treadmills."
Since his heart attack, Steve has stopped smoking, goes to the gym three times a week and is feeling fitter than ever. He said: "It’s been a long process and I do work hard to keep fit and healthy. But it’s completely worth it – I’m lucky to be alive.
"You might take it for granted, but at 4am when you need an ambulance and you’re in your hour of need, that’s when the NHS comes into its own. I was treated really well by all of the staff at the hospitals, and I am truly thankful to the staff at the cardiac rehabilitation centre for starting me off on the road to recovery."
If you would like more information about the cardiac rehabilitation service, please call Vivienne Casey on 01372 735 376 or Steve Pomroy, exercise specialist 07876 596 649.
Through its annual capital development programme, the Trust spends approximately £10 million a year on buying new equipment for its hospitals, including the latest scanners and x-rays machines. Millions of pounds are also spent on refurbishing and upgrading wards, clinics, theatres and other clinical areas.
