A letter from a patient

Here's a terrific note I just received from a patient. Helping people like this feel better is why became a Cardiologist. 

Doctor Portnay,

I just thought I'd drop you an email.  I just want to let you know that

I am feeling great, and I mean great. Somehow that little tweeking

and you telling me to increase my dosage of lasix seemed to do the

trick. The my tireness, and feeling sluggish went away.

I am in Boston and realized that I am back to being myself. I am

walking everywhere with a spring in my step.

So, I want to thank you for saving my life.  I didn't realize how sick

I was. I just plugged along going to work and my slowing down was

hardly noticeable to me.  I thought it was just some thing that happen

in the aging process. I was going down hill fast.  My decline was like some-thing one of my science teachers mentioned to me a million years ago.

Put a frog in cold water and while the heat is turned on, he will sit in the

water it he boils to death.

I was like that frog, I didn't know how sick I was or that my heart was

failing. My sister Chris, working for Cardiology saw something was

wrong with me, and I should be check you by, you specificially.

With your testing and quick action, the pacemaker was installed,

beautifully by Doctor Pittaro.  I was quickly able to get back to

work. It took a while before I noticed that my health generally was

improving. With your positive attitude, and wise counsel I was feeling

better and better.  I'm not sure but I think about a year later, you suggested getting into the Weight Mate program. I lost 40 pounds, changed my whole attitude about food and feel 20 years younger.

Another lucky break for me occurred when I turned 66 and retired.

I suddenly found myself free from the stress of work. I could now focus

on my health issues.  I feel now my future is looking brighter and brighter.

Thanks again,   see you in the spring for the next appointment.