Summing Up

If we had tried, we could not have had a more varied mixture of experiences. The range covers heart attacks at home, on holiday and abroad, affecting people in many different ways. Every time, it had a harrowing effect on individual's lives.

In every case, there is the initial shock and horror when, for several days, confusion reigns. During this time the mind is numb and very little is taken in as to what is happening. When the patient is discharged from hospital there is a feeling of relief and pleasure, although we are not sure what we can do to help.

All our contributors are members of, and have benefited from, HeartCare, being able to share their concerns and worries with others who have had similar experiences.

HeartCare is not a medical group, although visits are made to heart patients in the CCU, on the wards and at the later rehabilitation sessions. These visits are to reassure patients and to help them come to terms with what has happened.