All Things Heart: Recent Episodes
The University of Kansas Health System
Everything in life leads back to your heart. What you eat, how you feel, how much you exercise, your environment, your genetics and the list goes on. Join us as host Alexis Del Cid explores these connections. She'll share real-life stories and speak with physicians about all things related to the heart.
Cathy Jacobson thought she was healthy. She exercised, felt fine and had no idea dangerous plaque was building inside her arteries. But after a coronary calcium scan, often called a CardioScore test, doctors discovered severe heart disease eventually led to quadruple bypass surgery. Cathy shares the emotional moment she learned she needed open heart surgery, while cardio-thoracic surgeon Dr. Greg Muehlebach, from The University of Kansas Health System, explains how coronary calcium scoring helps detect hidden heart disease before a heart attack happens. The conversation also explores elevated Lp(a), family history risks, who should consider getting screened. He explains why this quick test is becoming a powerful tool in preventative heart care. This is a real-world look at how early detection can save lives.
Anne Weishaar lived with daily chest pain for years after undergoing triple bypass heart surgery. The pain was caused by angina, a condition often linked to reduced blood flow to the heart and coronary artery disease. At times, the pain spread into her arms, shoulders and neck, forcing her to rely on nitroglycerin tablets just to get through the day. In this episode of All Things Heart, Anne shares what it was like to live with chronic angina and why she decided to take part in a clinical trial at The University of Kansas Health System. Her doctors explain what angina is, why it is not the same as a heart attack, and how a small hourglass-shaped device called a coronary sinus reducer may help improve blood flow to areas of the heart. They also discuss who may qualify for the clinical trial, how the device is implanted, possible risks and what this new approach could mean for patients still searching for relief. This is a hopeful look at innovation in heart care and a new option for people living with ongoing chest pain.
A routine physical led to a life-changing discovery for 40-year-old Per Christensen. After years of other health challenges and countless medical tests, a nurse practitioner heard a faint heart murmur that no one had noticed before. Further testing at The University of Kansas Health System revealed Per had been living with a congenital heart defect called a bicuspid aortic valve. In this episode of All Things Heart, Per shares his journey from diagnosis to open heart surgery, including the Ross procedure performed by cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Todd Crawford. Dr. Crawford explains what a bicuspid aortic valve is, how it can go undetected into adulthood, and why the Ross procedure was the right option. The conversation also covers heart murmurs, preventive care, valve replacement, cardiac rehab, recovery after heart surgery, and why keeping a routine physical can make a life-changing difference.
A college student thought he had heartburn, but it turned out to be a life-threatening aortic dissection caused by undiagnosed Marfan syndrome. In this episode of All Things Heart, The University of Kansas Health System shares the story of Nicholas Counts, who collapsed just weeks before graduating from KU and woke up in the hospital after emergency open heart surgery. Nicholas joins cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Tyler Zorn, emergency physician Dr. Brandon Ricke, and cardiologist Dr. Elizabeth Gustello who helped get him air-lifted to The University of Kansas Health System for surgery to repair his aorta. The conversation covers aortic dissection symptoms, how to tell the difference between heartburn and a serious heart emergency, what happens during aortic dissection surgery, and why genetic testing can be important after a rare cardiac event. Doctors also explain how Marfan syndrome affects connective tissue and why some people may not show the typical outward signs.
It's the latest wellness buzzword—but what is inflammation really? From TikTok diets to expensive spa treatments, everyone is talking about "resetting" their body. Today, we're separating the hype from the healthcare reality.
After a stroke, heart failure, and being told hospice was his only option, Terrance Bruce's family refused to give up—seeking new care that ultimately changed everything. With the help of an LVAD and later a groundbreaking Donation after Circulatory Death (DCD) heart transplant, Terrance overcame a life-threatening infection and received a second chance at life. Today, he's feeling like a new man—proof that hope and innovation can rewrite even the most uncertain outcomes.
After a stroke, heart failure, and being told hospice was his only option, Terrance Bruce's family refused to give up—seeking new care that ultimately changed everything. With the help of an LVAD and later a groundbreaking Donation after Circulatory Death (DCD) heart transplant, Terrance overcame a life-threatening infection and received a second chance at life. Today, he's feeling like a new man—proof that hope and innovation can rewrite even the most uncertain outcomes.
A young mom lived with years of unexplained pain before doctors finally diagnosed pelvic congestion syndrome. The condition, caused by enlarged pelvic veins, is often overlooked in women with chronic pelvic pain. After a specialized minimally invasive procedure, she finally found relief.
Robert Frias was extremely sick- a heart transplant changed his life. He's here with his doctors to reveal what it's like to go through a transplant and discuss his quality of life on the other side.
Manuel Romo lost his twin brother, sister, and mother to a genetic condition no one knew they had. Years later, a new diagnosis and lifesaving heart surgery revealed the true cause—and gave him a future. Manuel joins specialists from The University of Kansas Health System to discuss Loeys-Dietz syndrome, monitoring hidden heart risks, and the importance of speaking up, getting checked, and listening to the people who love you.
For patients living hours from specialty clinics, the Care Collaborative is transforming access to heart, stroke, and chronic disease care across rural Kansas. Through remote monitoring, real-time guidance, and daily support, patients like Vern Becker are staying healthier without long travel. Alexis Del Cid talks with Vern, his care team, and leaders behind this groundbreaking program.
She underwent open heart surgery for a rare heart defect. Now doctors prescribed her GLP1-meds. But it's not to lose weight. We explore how these drugs are being used for cardiac care.
A young mom running on adrenaline and caffeine learned there her racing heart wasn't just lifestyle- it was a medical issue. She got her rhythm back on track with a cardiac ablation
No warnings, no symptoms so thank goodness she so giving! Meet the nurse whose routine blood donation saved her life.
He's not even 30 — and he's already on his second heart valve replacement. But this time, there's no open-heart surgery. Step inside the cath lab and see how doctors at The University of Kansas Health System are using advanced, minimally invasive techniques to give patients a second chance at life — without ever opening the chest.
She already had a pacemaker, then came a double mastectomy. Now, meet a woman with one of the world’s smallest pacemakers — and learn why this tiny device is making a big difference after breast cancer surgery.
A patient’s persistent pelvic pain found a name: Pelvic Congestion Syndrome. With proper diagnosis came real relief—and the chance to reclaim the life she thought she’d lost. Learn about her treatment and the life she leads today.
Meet an inspiring patient battling both heart failure and cancer at The University of Kansas Health System. He’s now had an “L-VAD” for seven years that helps blood pump through his heart. Learn how his medical team is working to improve his quality of life for years to come.
More than 40% of Americans have hypertension or high blood pressure. Sometimes a change in diet and medication isn’t enough. Doctors at The University of Kansas Health System offer hope using minimally invasive radiofrequency in a procedure that can reduce or even eliminate the need for medicine in some patients.
A mother’s frightening diagnosis of pregnancy induced heart failure led to a mechanical device called an LVAD (Left Ventricular Assist Device) that doctors at The University of Kansas Health System use as a bridge to transplant. Now her medical journey takes a remarkable turn- as those same doctors use LVAD as a bridge to her recovery.
Tetralogy of fallot, it's when a baby's heart doesn't form correctly during pregnancy leading to four different heart defects all at once.
Cardiac nurses literally work heart to heart with their patients. Go behind the scenes to learn about the high-stakes world of heart care and the nurses who never miss a beat.
It’s a remarkable story of survival. A congestive heart failure patient vows to honor his donor’s gift of life. We explore Richard Johnson’s incredible journey which includes the rare feat of walking while on ECMO.
He was in his 30’s when he suddenly tired easily. Turns out he had an aortic aneurism. Learn about the surgery to save him and the tiny pacemaker that preserves his beating heart.
Alex Lovely, a school facilities manager, endured years of serious health issues before discovering he had hyperaldosteronism—a rare, often missed condition. Hear how expert care at The University of Kansas Health System transformed his life just in time for a fall dance he’ll never forget.
She had trouble breathing and blamed asthma. But she was short of breath for another reason- an aneurysm in her aortic arch. Learn how the right diagnosis and a surgery changed everything in just one day. Guests include patient Jody Roberts and cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Todd Crawford.
A clinical trial is underway to determine if shunts inside the heart help blood flow properly and reduce pressure. This is just one of many trials to help advance medicine and heart care. Guests include patient Richard Thomas, Division Chief of Cardiovascular Medicine Dr. Mark Wiley, and Transplantation Cardiologist Dr. Hirak Shah.
A local city council-member was asked to give final words which were almost his final words when he collapsed. It led to a unique heart transplant which involved two surgeons from two different hospitals.
Two friends share more than just vacation memories- they also share ischemic heart disease. They share their near-death experiences and the care that has stabilized their health.
Six and half million Americans have heart failure. It causes chest pain, shortness of breath and dizziness to just name a few. CCM therapy may be an option to regulate your heart.
It’s a reality for children born with heart defects- they will grow up and need an entire new care team. Patient Ali Baker shares her experience with the Adult Congenital Health Disease Clinic.
A heart doctor and nurse practitioner keeping each other in a healthy rhythm. What can we learn from a married couple working in cardiology and lessons of how their love keeps work and life balanced.
We celebrate a week of love! Donating the gift of life may be the greatest gift you can give to another person. Meet two patients who have a new lease on life due to heart transplants.
We celebrate a week of love acknowledging the comfort and companionship kids need in the hospital. Learn about “Shadow Buddies.”
From the players to the fans in the stands, The University of Kansas Health System, is your official health care provider. We are also some of the biggest fans! We cheer on the Chiefs!
Heart disease is the leading case of death for women. Studies and therapies to treat it were mostly designed for men. Hear how women can advocate for the heart health.
As we are in holiday party season, hear about how drinking more than usual for just one night can affect your heart. Guests include electrophysiologist Dr. Rhea Pimentel and interventional cardiologist Dr. Dusan Stanojevich.
An eye doctor discovered dangerous blockages requiring open heart surgery. Learn why doctors say a routine trip to the ophthalmologist can be lifesaving. Guests include: Dr. Todd Crawford, thoracic surgeon; Dr. Radwan Ajlan, comprehensive ophthalmologist; and patient Vickie Baylie.
Feeling jittery and nervous for no good reason, Daryle says he knew something was physically wrong. Daryle’s cardiac diagnosis was common, though his solution would be a first.
Kenny Karczewski refused to believe open heart surgery was his only option. How a second opinion at The University of Kansas Health System led him to a much less-invasive solution.
A lesson in trusting your instincts. Ann Bruer was told she needed a heart transplant. A second opinion revealed the fix was far less extreme, her 50-years-long fight to a healthy heart.
A single mother of six with no time to slow down is told her heart is failing. What doctors did that has her back to living her life and being a
A drawer full of medications, and years of scary diagnoses. Haley Taylor is determined. We share her journey to good health, after refusing to take no for an answer.
An incredible addition for cardiac patients and their doctors. See how the robotic heart lab is changing patient care.
We explain the link between breast cancer treatment and heart problems, and the doctors who specialize in minimizing those risks.
When she was diagnosed with breast cancer, she didn't slow down. She got moving! Her doctors say it had everything to do with protecting her heart during her treatments, and her recovery.
Instead of driving hours to find the right doctor, Glen Virden only has to drive 15 minutes in a town of less than three thousand. We share the work being done to bring top of the line health care to rural communities.
An infectious giggle and beautiful eyes! You'd never guess the trouble that surrounded this little girl's birth for her mom, pregnancy-induced heart failure!
A nickname that comes with a medical story made for a movie. Find out why his friends call him “Miracle.”
Nearly 39 million Americas are living with diabetes. We explore the link between diabetes and heart failure and how to prevent it from happening to you.
After the journey to save his failing lasted years, this is how Brian Pitts went from patient to survivor and now thriver! We look at his incredible mission.
A routine visit leads to an emergency surgery! What happened to a patient and why she says she feels better now, in her sixties then she did in her 30's!
Born months early at only 3 pounds, her newborn also had a heart condition. How our medical team treats the tiniest of hearts.
A new mom goes from spending a morning snuggling with her baby to the emergency department and a stunning diagnosis. The treatment and the changes she made to her life personally and professionally.
He went to bed with leg pain and woke up to a leg that had doubled in size!! See the lifesaving treatment that had him back on his feet.
"I remember camping at the lake, a sudden searing chest pain that came out of nowhere, bounding out of the camper I cried for help" That chest pain wound up being a tear in a major artery. Meet the woman who survived a potentially deadly condition and see how she's inspiring others.
It's a milestone few hospitals have reached and it's having a positive impact for patients! We celebrate the technique that eliminates the need for you to go on blood thinners!
A Kansas City drummer skipped taking care of the most important beat, his heart! What he ignored that ultimately led to a quintuple bypass.
Misdiagnosed for years, stuck on oxygen, with no answers, until she came here, to The University of Kansas Health System. Meet the patient and the doctor who she says gave her life back!
From med student to patient. You've seen this doctor as an expert on our show before. This time, he's the patient, sharing his journey with the same heart condition he now treats.
It had been 50 years since a Kansas man had been to see the doctor. He made an appointment because of his dog. How a man's best friend led to a life saving diagnosis and treatment.
In his personal life, he goes by Terry, but you may know him as "Car Santa!" How doctors saved his life, and his legs, with cutting edge medicine.
A Christmas miracle for a retired nurse! Archie Moore joins us as the first anniversary of getting her new heart approaches. How she's celebrating Christmas this year with her thirteen grandkids!
A mother's intuition- When doctors pushed her aside, this mom demanded a second opinion- and it saved her daughter's life. We look at the life-saving treatment she found for her baby right here at the The University of Kansas Health System.
Years after facing *two major heart issues this doctor got a devastating blow. How he went from making end-of-life plans to fulfilling his life-long dreams thanks to his cardiologist- right here at the health system.
Weight loss, fatigue, or a racing heart could be huge indicators you are struggling emotionally with anxiety or grief, but also symptoms something is wrong with your thyroid! The connection between thyroid disease and your heart.
We hear remarkable stories from patients and survivors benefiting from the latest therapies and technology. And how you can lower your risk of heart problems with some simple things you can start doing immediately.
When this young mom, and experienced runner kept getting a flutter in her chest she was confused. It turned out to be the key warning sign that saved her life. Her diagnosis, the doctor who saved her life and the signs you need to watch out for.
Most of us wouldn't complain about an afternoon nap but for Joe, it was a sign something was seriously wrong. How your sleep habits can impact your heart, and and what a sleep study revealed about Joe's heart.
A stomachache turns into being on life support while waiting for a heart transplant. Learn more about the shocking diagnosis.
It’s a prescription you can’t fill at a pharmacy: exercise as medicine. Why it works, and how these providers practice what they prescribe, in a big way!
But what happened to this Kansas City entrepreneur and businessman could happen to anyone with a varicose vein. Our experts explain the potential danger to your heart if you don’t get your varicose veins treated.
Getting one organ transplant is a big deal. We'll meet a patient who got two organ transplants at the same time!
Chronic pain can be debilitating, but did you know there is also a clear link between chronic pain and heart trouble? Our experts explain how pain affects the heart, and how you can access a unique clinic here at The University of Kansas Health System to help people with chronic pain get relief.
More than 37 million people in the United States have diabetes. That’s more than 11% of the whole population! Doctors say there is a clear link between diabetes and heart trouble. Would you know the signs?
Pat Carney made an appointment with his eye doctor because he was experiencing blurry spots in his vision. When the ophthalmologist looked into his eyes – he found an indication of a potentially fatal heart problem. Guests include Dr. Raghuveer Dendi and Dr. Radwan Ajlan.
She needed a new heart. Before that, she would survive cancer and undergo a life-altering surgery. Learn about the battles she faced before receiving the gift of life.
We all know how jarring the sound of our morning alarm can be when it wakes us out of a deep sleep. For this high school junior — that reaction was potentially deadly… every time. Learn about the diagnosis that saved his life, and the lives of two immediate family members.
Jon Cook suffered a cardiac arrest while on an evening jog that could have claimed his life. Thanks to the quick actions of some extra ordinary individuals, he is alive and able to tell his story.
John Worden, Great Bend Campus administrator, is joined by Kim Clarke, RN, and Peter Mick, APRN. They discuss what life is like inside the Emergency Department, including what it means to be a Level IV trauma center and how the emergency care team treats a growing number of patients each day.
Jill – already diagnosed with a heart condition – noticed her heart was racing. Worried, she went to see her cardiologist and was surprised by her cardiologist's prescription: rather than take something, she was told to stop doing something; something that so many of us do every day.
When other doctors might have ruled him out as "too old for a heart transplant," his cardiologist here at The University of Kansas Health System looked at the whole person and determined he was the perfect candidate for a new heart. We explore how much age versus lifestyle and overall health, when it comes to getting a new heart.
Decades after surviving childhood cancer, came the heart complications related to her treatments. After struggling for years, managing dozens of different doctors, appointments, treatments and countless medical problems (and bills) – Vicki finally found support! We’ll introduce you to a special clinic at The University of Kansas Cancer Center, dedicated to helping adults just like her: The Pediatric Cancer Survivorship Transition Clinic.
David Rolf had never heard of multiple myeloma until he was diagnosed with it. Even though African Americans have a higher incidence this kind of cancer, doctors say they often don’t have access to the treatment. We explore why, and also talk with a cardio-oncologist about the effects the treatment can have on the heart.
For months, a young woman from Joplin suffered terrible discomfort and pain. Her doctors at the time could not determine why. She came to The University of Kansas Health System and was diagnosed with pelvic congestion syndrome. Learn about the symptoms, diagnosis and the procedure that offered her relief.
When Vietnam veteran Gary Rinehart noticed it was getting tougher to enjoy his morning walk without feeling a tightness in his chest, he brushed it off. That tightness gradually turned to pain so severe he could barely climb the stairs. By the time he went to the doctor, he needed triple bypass surgery.
A family in despair. A teenager desperate for help, battling a brutal addiction to a potentially deadly drug. Our experts explore the problem gripping communities across America and right here in Kansas City.
Did you postpone any doctor's visits during the pandemic? One man did and it lead to a life-threatening situation with his heart. Learn how doctors saved his life – twice.
Initially, Ron Kimes' leg pain stumped his doctors and worried his wife. It was after they sent him to The University of Kansas Health System's Center for Advanced Vascular Care when Kimes was finally given the diagnosis of peripheral artery disease. Learn more about his story and how our experts are treating this disease.
As the weight piled one due to undiagnosed polycystic ovary syndrome, Melissa Rivera's heart was at risk. We'll learn what finally inspired this Kansas City mom to take the plunge and get a potentially life-saving surgery.
One in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. It's more likely to develop in older men and is considered rare in men under 40. Most men will survive it, but the treatment doesn't come without risks. Experts discuss various projects and research related to prostate cancer treatments and the heart.
A man was in Kansas City on a business trip when he suffered a sudden stroke and collapsed into a snow bank! Luckily his wife, who was on the phone with him from more than 100 miles away, recognized the signs of the stroke. She knew exactly what to do and what to tell dispatchers when she called 9-1-1 to get him the quickest care. The surgeon who cared for him says her quick actions were just as important as the life saving procedure he performed.
There's a connection between untreated sleep apnea and heart troubles. Dr. Ravi Garg does special surgery to move jaw forward and help sleep apnea. Hear from a patient who underwent this procedure and was cured of his sleep apnea.
Exploring the link between periodontitis, gingivitis and the heart and if tooth extractions increase your risk of a heart attack.
What began as a simple blister on his foot nearly led to his leg being amputated. Learn about the heart connection, from Cardiologist Dr. Kamal Gupta, and hear from the patient, and the surgeon who performed the unique procedure that saved his leg.
A new study shows breastfeeding is connected to better heart health for the mom. But it’s not necessarily the act of breast feeding that brings those benefits. Doctors explain all the other factors involved, and how all new parents can get those benefits.
Jeff Barnthouse was feeling a little rundown. He thought it was probably because he was burning the candle at both ends, as a new dad, with two little ones at home. Then he collapsed. What doctors discovered on his smart watch was a treasure trove of information that helped save his life.
A local woman spent 20 years being misdiagnosed until she finally came to The University of Kansas Health System where doctors diagnosed her with epilepsy. The patient will share her remarkable story with us, and the unique surgery that changed her life. An epileptologist and a cardiologist discuss the heart dangers that seizures pose to the heart, and why it’s so important to get proper care for seizures.
We'll talk to our heart specialists about common misconceptions about estrogen therapy, also known as hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and its effect on the heart.
Garen Armstrong ignored all the signs that something was wrong with his heart. When his smart-watch alerted him, he thought it was broken. Turns out — he was in heart failure!
Doctors discuss the science behind “The Bliss Point,” which might explain why you can't stop eating certain foods. Bliss point foods have amounts of sugar, far and/or salt that optimize deliciousness. They also have the power to override the natural signals to the brain that tell us we're full and satisfied. Our experts explain it all and the devastating consequences these foods can have on your heart.
Do you tend to drink more around St. Paddy’s Day and Spring Break? Did you drink more during the pandemic? Cardiologists are concerned about a condition called “Holiday Heart.”
A father and son, both in heart failure, but only one could survive. We look at how common symptoms can turn into full blown heart failure. Heart transplant Gary Patillo, Sr., shares his story. Cardiologist Dr. Bhanu Gupta also joins.
On the premiere episode, Alexis del Cid talks with two women who are suffering profound, COVID-related heart complications, 2 years after surviving COVID-19. A long-haul doctor and a cardiologist explain how and why this is happening.
Everything in life leads back to your heart. What you eat, how you feel, how much you exercise, your environment, your genetics and the list goes on. Join us as host Alexis Del Cid explores these connections. She'll share real-life stories and speak with physicians about all things related to the heart.