Kicking Out Heart Disease

The following story was written for Myrtue's Health Matters Fall 2024 Newsletter.

Jim Chipman, a local Taekwondo instructor, had no idea he had underlying heart issues. Why would he? At 70, he was in great shape — he walked over a mile daily, taught Taekwondo classes, and lived a healthy, balanced lifestyle. His blood work was nearly perfect, and he maintained a strong physique. However, Jim’s wife, Becky, decided they should both take the new calcium scoring test offered at Myrtue Medical Center.

The results were a wake-up call.

While Becky’s results were relatively normal, Jim’s numbers were much higher than expected. Initially, he thought it was a mistake. After consulting with Dr. Sarah Devine, his primary care doctor, he was referred to Carly Clare, MSN, ARNP, NP-C, at Methodist Physicians Clinic – Cardiology. Carly, who provides care at Myrtue’s Surgery + Specialty Clinic, worked alongside Dr. Joseph Ayoub also from Methodist Physicians Clinic – Cardiology. Further testing revealed that Jim needed a triple-bypass surgery — a procedure that likely saved his life.

“The CT calcium scoring test is a great tool to help determine your risk for cardiovascular disease,” said Carly. “For Jim, his CT calcium score helped diagnose severe coronary artery disease that could have led to a future heart attack. He did not have any symptoms at the time of the test, so he could have been one of the people who have a heart attack as their first symptom of coronary artery disease. Because of this screening tool, he wasn’t.”

A coronary calcium score test is a computed tomography (CT) scan of the heart that identifies calcium plaques in the coronary arteries. These plaques can narrow blood vessels, potentially leading to a cardiovascular event. The test is done by Myrtue's Diagnostic Imaging team, is non-invasive, takes only 30 minutes, and involves holding your breath for 20 seconds at various intervals.

In Jim’s case, the test revealed he had a 96% chance of having a heart attack. The alarming results prompted him to quickly opt for surgery. While this outcome was unexpected, early detection gave the Chipmans time to plan for surgery, choose a doctor, and make arrangements for Jim’s post-surgery cardiac rehabilitation.

The Chipmans have since encouraged others to take the test. Jim said, “You can’t put a price on it!”

“I am thankful we have Cardiac Rehab right here at Myrtue,” said Jim. “They have provided support while I have been gaining back my strength and stamina.”

The test has made a significant impact on how Jim and Becky approach their lives. They now focus on a healthy diet and continued exercise. The Chipmans also want others to be aware of how early detection can inform future generations about their cardiac risk. Genetics play a big role in heart health: Jim’s mother had a quadruple bypass surgery at his age, his father had several stents, and his grandfather passed away from a heart attack at 52.

“If you’ve got a chance, get your heart checked,” Jim said. “And exercise. The Petersen Family Wellness Center is a great place to go. They have everything you need right there.”

To schedule your calcium score test, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider by calling 712.755.4516.

“We thank God that we had this done,” Becky said. “We’ve learned so much. This is authentic preventive care. Knowledge is power.”

The calcium score test is not covered by insurance and costs $75 out of pocket.