Sam’s Story: Living Heart Healthy after TCAR
Santo “Sam” Iacono loves life. And thanks to decades-long care at Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health — along with a steadfast commitment to healthy living — this octogenarian is more active than many people half his age. The former owner of Sam’s Pizza, a once-iconic landmark on Columbia Avenue in Lancaster city, uses his well-honed cooking skills to prepare his own healthy meals of fish, chicken, and “lots of greens.” He spends at least a half hour each day working out in the family room he converted to a gym, maintains his own 1-acre yard, and serves as handyman at properties he manages. This is pretty impressive for anyone in their 80s, much less someone who has undergone quadruple bypass surgery, valve replacement, and two carotid artery procedures to prevent stroke, the most recent being a transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) when Sam was 82. The newer, minimally invasive TCAR procedure reduces operative risks. What’s behind Sam’s disciplined approach to health? “I like to live,” says Sam, who established roots in Lancaster after emigrating from Italy in the early 1960s. “I want to enjoy my kids and grandkids.” Longstanding Relationships with Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health Sam credits physicians at Lancaster General Health for “saving my life,” several times over. His primary care physician, Dr. William Roberts at Family Medicine Abbeyville, has monitored Sam’s health for years, referring him to specialists at The Heart Group of Lancaster General Health to treat his heart disease. Sam has been a patient at The Heart Group for more than 20 years. From prevention and diagnosis through disease management and cardiac interventions, The Heart Group team offers the latest advancements in care, along with educational opportunities to help patients live their heart-healthiest lives. The team works collaboratively with primary care physicians like Roberts and other specialists to help ensure a comprehensive and coordinated approach to care.
www.BusinessWomanPA.com
Heart Health 2022
11
