The Rehabilitation Medicine Department of the Faculty of Medicine at UiTM hosted an inspiring half-day event on the 26th of July, 2023, aimed at celebrating the resilience and determination of cardiac survivors. This special gathering brought together 30 participants who had previously faced cardiac events and undergone procedures like coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and coronary angiogram or stenting. This event marked the beginning of the crucial third phase of their cardiac rehabilitation journey, designed to empower them with the tools and knowledge to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.
Phase-by-Phase Progress: The Heart of Cardiac Rehabilitation
Cardiac rehabilitation is a multi-phased program designed to support individuals on their path to recovery after cardiac events. The program consists of three distinct phases. The first phase takes place during the initial hospitalization, offering education and guidance to patients before they are discharged. The second phase is the intensive phase, spanning eight weeks, where participants undergo a rigorous lifestyle modification program, including a tailored exercise regimen. Finally, the third phase, often seen as the culmination of the rehabilitation process, focuses on maintaining the progress achieved in the previous phases.
Empowering Cardiac Survivors: The Objective of Phase 3
The Phase 3 Cardiac Rehabilitation Program’s main objective is to empower participants to integrate healthy lifestyle modifications into their everyday lives effectively. This involves education on managing cardiovascular risk factors, maintaining regular medical follow-ups, adopting a heart-healthy diet, and embracing an active lifestyle through consistent exercise.
An Inspirational Inauguration
The event was graced by Dr. Mazlifah Omar, the esteemed advisor for the program. Dr. Mazlifah’s opening remarks set a tone of hope and empowerment, emphasizing the importance of taking charge of one’s health and well-being. To kickstart the day with enthusiasm, participants engaged in dancerobic activities, an energetic warm-up session that got everyone moving and grooving.
Following the warm-up, participants embarked on a 1km walkathon around the picturesque campus of the Faculty of Medicine at UiTM. The walkathon was a symbolic step towards embracing an active lifestyle, encouraging participants to continue prioritizing physical activity in their daily routines.
Cooking Up Heart-Healthy Meals: The Masterchef Challenge
One of the highlights of the day was the “Masterchef Challenge.” Participants were divided into groups and tasked with creating a delicious, heart-healthy meal using only the provided wholesome ingredients. Under the guidance of expert dietitians, teams concocted nutritious and flavorful dishes, proving that healthy eating can indeed be a delight for the taste buds.
Discussing Important Matters: The Health Forum Session
The event concluded with a thought-provoking Health Forum Session titled “Sexual Health in Cardiac Survivors.” Moderated by Dr. Mazlifah Omar, the panel featured Dr. Saari Mohamad Yatim, a Rehabilitation Physician from Hospital Serdang and Assoc Prof Dr. Hasbullah Ismail from the Faculty of Sports Sciences and Recreation at UiTM. This session provided a safe and open platform for participants to discuss an often overlooked aspect of cardiac rehabilitation. The panelists addressed questions and concerns, shedding light on the importance of sexual health in the overall well-being of cardiac survivors.
A Day Filled with Smiles and Inspiration
The event was a resounding success, leaving participants and organizers alike with a sense of accomplishment and motivation. The camaraderie among participants was heartwarming, reflecting the strong support system that the cardiac rehabilitation program has fostered over the years.
Expressing Gratitude
The success of the Phase 3 Cardiac Rehabilitation Program event would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of the committee members. Special thanks go to the Cardiac Rehabilitation Team, the Dietitian Team, and the Cardiac Nurses, whose unwavering commitment to the well-being of cardiac survivors shines through in every aspect of their work.
As we celebrate the accomplishments of these heart heroes, we are reminded of the resilience of the human spirit. The Cardiac Rehabilitation Program at UiTM continues to provide essential support and guidance to those on their journey to heart health, ensuring that they emerge as empowered and informed individuals capable of leading fulfilling and active lives. This event was not just a celebration; it was a reaffirmation of the strength that resides within each cardiac survivor, a strength that will continue to drive them forward on their path to wellness.