Touching our hearts C

utting-edge technology, patient-centered care, state-of-the-art facilities, and education concerning every aspect of their treatment are what patients can expect when they visit The Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence. Dr. Qamar and his staff do more than just practice medicine. They conduct specialized testing and perform life-saving procedures — and new patients quickly learn what established patients already know — they take pride in building lasting relationships with each and every patient. Throughout the years, Dr. Qamar and his staff feel fortunate to have had the pleasure to cross the paths and touch the lives of those who make up the heart of their practice — the patients. With February being American Heart Month, the staff at ICE wanted to take time to share some of the moments and people who have made such a difference in their HEARTS.

Sylvia says hello

“As Dr. Ugarte’s secretary, I assist him by answering his phone calls and calling in all prescriptions. My responsibilities mean I am not directly in front of our patients but work behind the scenes. Sylvia Marsden has touched my heart both personally and professionally. She recently lost a loved one, and through it all, she has remained up- beat and always makes sure I and the other staff members are doing well. She puts our friendship in front of her needs. Every time she is in the office, she makes it a point to see me before she leaves; we connect on a very personal level.”

— Dena Isom Secretary/Receptionist

“I have been here for 8 years, and due to my job, I see a lot of the same patients every 3, 6, or 12 months. I like to talk to my patients during procedures. I‘ve developed relationships with a majority of them by sharing stories about my kids and they share stories about theirs.”

— Kelly Singer Registered Cardiac Sonographer

Support that matters

Up Upp Hatmatters

“When George Ciaramello has an appointment, no matter where I am in the building, he will find me just to say hello and ask how I am doing. He has been through a lot of procedures and surgeries but always tries to make me smile, even when he doesn’t feel like smiling himself. He is always concerned about me and my family and asks how they are doing and feeling. Even when he is weak from treatments, he is concerned for me. He and his wife go out of their way to make us feel special. The biggest gratification in our jobs is healing our patients from the inside out, even the sickest ones. George never gives up, and he considers us his support system.”

— Brenda Faford Office Coordinator/Billing Specialist

Twirling Ann

“Ann Pelle is the captain of The Villages Twirlers and Drum Corps. She is always very cheerful and loves to share her day with us as she participates in various community outings. I love to hear about all she has planned and the new activities she participates in. As busy as she may be, Ann is a model patient and stays active and up-to-date with all her appointments.