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A Journey to Heart Health

Kathy Rindock of Allentown, Pa., learns the value of support

As Kathy Rindock stood in the audience of a First Strides® program on women and heart disease last fall, she realized she was in trouble. Presenter Anne Marie Crown of Lehigh Valley Health Network was describing the heart disease risk factors, “and I had five of the major ones!” Rindock says. “I was overweight, I smoked, my blood pressure and cholesterol were high, and I had a family history riddled with heart disease.”

Rindock, a 53-year-old social worker from Allentown, had already tackled her weight problem by joining the health network’s Healthy You Fitness Center. “I knew it was the place for me when I saw people my age exercising and enjoying it,” she says. “I didn’t feel intimidated the way I have in other gyms.”

Encouraged by the personal attention she received, Rindock felt she could finally stick with a fitness program. As the pounds began to come off, she took another step. With her daughter Cassie, 25, she joined First Strides, a program that helps women of all ages progress in walking or running at their own pace. Personal mentors are a highlight of the program. “They were so encouraging, with a great sense of humor,” she says. “It was the best feeling—I actually jogged!”

She was on her way, but Rindock still didn’t realize how badly she needed a lifestyle change until she met Crown and heard about those risk factors. “I had no idea so many women die of heart disease,” she says.

Determined not to be one of them, Rindock enlisted the help of Crown, who directs the health network’s Heart Help for Women program. Crown referred her to cardiologist Joan Homan, M.D., as well as a nutritionist and smoking cessation counselor.

“Kathy is a good example of how women tend to put everyone and everything ahead of themselves,” Homan says. “We think of heart disease as a man’s disease. Most women are stunned to learn they have risk factors. In Kathy’s case, a little education probably saved her life.”

With the support of her team (including her family), Rindock has lost about 40 pounds through a healthier diet and regular exercise. Medication is helping control her blood pressure and cholesterol. She lowers stress through exercise, meditation and journal-keeping. Quitting smoking has been challenging, but she’s working hard at it.

“I’ve learned not to beat myself up,” she says. “If I slip, I get right back on track and keep going.”

Homan encourages women to enlist the support of others on their road to heart health. “Go to the gym or bike with a friend, walk with colleagues at lunch, get your family on a healthy eating plan,” she says. “We’re all busy, but we can motivate each other. Whatever you do, make it a habit, and talk to your doctor about your risk factors.”

STArt moving!

Yes, you can
walk or run!
First Strides

Rindock agrees. “I have people on my side who know how hard it is and want me to succeed. They really listen to me. We laugh, we cry, and I know I’m not alone.

“I was motivated by fear initially, but that’s not sustainable. Now I’ve opened myself up and found joy. Anyone can do it. You just need to take that first step, and be gentle with yourself.

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