On the afternoon of Monday September 29, 2014, Terry Sherrill arrived at
the CVMC Emergency Department (ED) complaining of chest pain. Within minutes,
he was diagnosed with a ST Segment Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) –
a condition the American Heart Association calls a severe heart attack
caused by a prolonged period of blocked blood supply that affects a large
area of the heart. He was at risk of death and/or disability, but the
quick response by CVMC staff who are trained on core measures established
by evidence-based care practices brought him through the event and, today,
Sherrill values even the thought of watching his grandchildren grow up
more than ever.
As Sherrill was being moved to the CVMC Cardiac Catheterization Lab (Cath
Lab) he suffered v-fib cardiac arrest requiring rapid resuscitation. In
the Cath Lab, a stent was placed in his occluded vessel – and just
62 minutes after walking into the ED, Sherrill became a living testament
to the Cath Lab’s efficient teamwork.
After being discharged from the hospital, Sherrill stopped smoking and
started participating in CVMC’s outpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation
Program . This additional aspect of excellent cardiac care available to
heart patients in the area, cardiac rehabilitation benefits include reduced
cardiac mortality and incidence of cardiac complications. It also improves
cardiovascular risk factors (blood pressure and cholesterol) and quality of life.
Since having his heart attack, Sherrill continues to make a concerted effort
to exercise more. He believes he got a second chance thanks to the care
he received from CVMC staff so he is doing his part to ensure he continues
to do well. Mr. Sherrill extends his thanks and appreciation to all involved
in his care.
Sherrill, married with two children, has three grandchildren. In his spare
time he enjoys fishing. In fact he spent time as the First Mate during
past Blue Marlin fishing tournaments. When asked about what evidenced-based
care means to him, he responded “it means I will get the chance
to see my grandchildren graduate.” Complimentary of his care from
everyone, he said it was “excellent” every place he went at CVMC.