Timing, location and perhaps a bit of luck were on Bard Mackey’s side on a Tuesday in January. The retired teacher from Waverly was on his usual walking route when he began experiencing severe chest pain. He happened to be close to the emergency room at Waverly Health Center (WHC), so he walked there to get checked out.
Mackey was evaluated and told to see a cardiologist as soon as possible. He was referred to the cardiology clinic with Cedar Valley Medical Specialists at WHC. Mackey had an appointment scheduled for Thursday, just two days later. At his appointment, Mackey was told he needed intervention as quickly as possible.
“By 3:00 p.m. that same day, I was admitted to the hospital, and I was on the table before 5:00 p.m.,” said Mackey. He had more than 90% blockage of the LAD artery, or the “widowmaker.” Had he not arrived when he did, he could’ve had a much worse outcome – possibly a full-blown heart attack over the weekend.
“If not for fast access to the cardiology clinic and the quick referral, I would not be here today,” said Mackey. “It seems industry standard is for a two- to four-week wait time to see a cardiologist, and I would not have made it that long. It’s quite literally a matter of life and death.”
Mackey is now recovering well and began cardiac rehabilitation at WHC. “I am forever grateful for all the medical professionals who saved my life and are helping me live a longer and fuller life.”
To learn more about cardiology services at Waverly Health Center, click here.