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Ed Sundberg Luncheon

Chapter April Luncheon is Lesson in Heart Health

Ed Sundberg ‘68, provided an overview of his experience of suffering a heart attack in July of 2005 while traveling on business in Canada.

Ed said that he experienced a pressure in his chest after dinner one evening during the trip. Not really a pain, but rather a pressure more akin to heartburn or gas. At first he put it off thinking it would pass. After returning to his hotel after dinner, with no letup in symptoms, he informed the front desk that he needed medical attention. Within minutes he was swarmed by three people and whisked away to a room for monitoring. Very shortly thereafter, he was on his way to Mt. Sinai Hospital in downtown Toronto.

After much monitoring by doctors there, he was taken to Toronto General Hospital for a catheterization procedure. The results of that procedure showed 90% blockage in 5 of the arteries near his heart. He needed bypass surgery immediately.

Long story short, Ed is doing very well now. Having survived this event, he admonished all in attendance to monitor their diet, get regular exercise, take a small aspirin daily, and act immediately upon any symptoms. He was told by doctors that only about 40% of people survive their first heart attack, so he was lucky.

Hal Morrison ’61, also recounted his experience of having a heart attack just a few months ago. He too, stressed not to ignore or dismiss symptoms. Treatment within the first three hours of the onset of symptoms is critical in preventing permanent damage. He strongly recommended a boot titled “Give Your Heart a Break”. Among other topics, it discusses habits you should develop to ensure a healthy heart. The big three are diet, exercise, and stress management.

Thanks to both of these alumni for reminding us to make the time to take care of ourselves.