Pictured: Jeff Amarando, center, with his Exercise Physiologists Enrique Rodriguez, left, and Mark Zaleskiewicz, at his graduation from cardiac rehab on January 26.
As American Heart Month comes to a close, we are thrilled to share with you this inspiring story about Jeff Amarando, a 52-year-old Ocean City resident who recently graduated from Shore's cardiac rehabilitation program after suffering a massive heart attack. Jeff will be forever grateful for Shore's program because it helped give him his life back. Thanks to the support of our community, Shore can continue to provide cardiac rehab and many other life-changing services!
Jeff was a hardworking entrepreneur for many years, putting in 80-hour weeks running a pizza shop and his Island Carpet Cleaning company - all while raising two daughters with his wife, taking care of his dogs, and, for a time, caring for his parents. But everything changed on August 27 when he suffered a massive heart attack just as he sat down with his wife to watch TV.
Despite the odds, Jeff survived after multiple brushes with death, enduring weeks of hospitalization and setbacks. Now, through Shore's Cardiac Rehab program, he's on the path to recovery, defying the slim chance he was given.
Cardiac rehab is a supervised exercise program where patients who had a heart attack, heart surgery, or other serious heart-related conditions are coached on treadmills, exercise bikes, and other equipment as they rebuild their cardiovascular health. Jeff says that what he loves most about the program is the people.
"I tell everybody about it. The staff, like Mark and Enrique, they keep you going and encourage you, you know what I mean? At first, I had to really take my time. I'd do what I could and go home, gradually building up. They take your blood pressure, they're right on it, and if anything were to happen, you know you'd be okay in their hands," Jeff said.
On January 26, after 36 cardiac rehab sessions, Jeff officially graduated from the program - cap, gown, diploma and all. But Jeff had no intention of stopping. Recognizing the value of ongoing camaraderie and support, Jeff continues to attend the maintenance program at cardiac rehab twice a week, cherishing the sense of belonging and encouragement he finds there.
"I love coming here. I was a workaholic before, and now I have a lot of time on my hands, so this helps keep me busy."
Jeff has a whole new way of life now. He sold the pizza shop, adopted a heart-healthy diet, and now feels confident enough to take walks at home, either alone or with his family - even on the days he has cardiac rehab. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the invaluable role of programs like Shore Medical Center's cardiac rehabilitation in transforming lives.
As we continue our "Caring Together" series, let's celebrate Jeff's journey and the countless others whose lives have been touched by the unwavering support of our community. Together, we're making a difference – one inspiring story at a time.
