Aspirus Stanley Hospital Celebrates Cardiac Rehab Return with Ribbon Cutting

STANLEY, Wis. – Staff at Aspirus Stanley Hospital and Clinic joined with the Stanley Chamber of Commerce and other community members on September 26 for a ribbon cutting to celebrate the return of outpatient cardiac rehabilitation services which recently reopened in a newly remodeled space. 

One of those on hand for the event was Sindy Symbal of Stanley, who was among the first group of patients to recently complete the 12-week Phase 2 cardiac rehab program. Symbal was on her way home from work earlier this summer when she began experiencing symptoms of a heart attack. 

“My family has been coming to what is now Aspirus Stanley Hospital and Clinic for many years.” said Symbal. “I have a new appreciation for this resource in our community after my recent cardiac incident and am grateful to be able to have access to rehabilitation so close to home.”

Symbal experienced many different layers of the Aspirus Health system. She was originally treated in the Emergency Department at Aspirus Stanley Hospital where it was determined she needed to be flown by Aspirus MedEvac to Aspirus Wausau Hospital where she was taken directly to the cardiac catheterization lab. 

“It was scary, but the staff really made me feel at ease with constant communication at every step of the way,” said Symbal. 

After a successful procedure in Wausau, Symbal went back home to Stanley to begin the 36-session cardiac rehabilitation program that provides structured exercise in a monitored environment. 

“I can’t say enough good things about all the staff,” she said. “They went out of their way to make things fun and work with my employer to make sure I was able to complete the program.”

For anyone recovering from a heart attack or other heart related problem, participating in a cardiac rehabilitation program is an important part of getting back to your best health. 

“We are honored to return this service to our community,” said Rob Holcomb, Vice President-Chief Administrative Officer, Aspirus Stanley Hospital.  “The benefits of access to this service and many others provided by our dedicated staff close to home is an example of our mission in action.”

In addition to exercise, cardiac rehab provides education about how to adopt a more heart-healthy lifestyle after a heart event to help move the participant toward healing and long-term quality of life. For information about the cardiac rehab program at Aspirus Stanley Hospital call 715-644-6181.