Patient Stories: Terrance Mitchell
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"Dr. Hui and his team aren't on the cutting edge; they're defining the edge." Terrance Mitchell and Dr. William Hui. |
When Terrance Mitchell was 49 years old, his health was the last thing on his mind. Back then, he thought had more important things to worry about. But in a heartbeat, everything changed — including Terrance's priorities.
In 1995, Terrance was, like so many of us, very busy. Life was full of work, family, friends, travel...and stress. "I didn't really mind it, though," says Terrance. "I liked my life — fast-paced and rewarding." But with so many competing priorities, Terrance found himself neglecting certain aspects of his life, like his health. "I was young, strong, in good shape. I didn't really think I had anything to worry about." Unfortunately, he couldn't have been more wrong.
One night in June, after a hectic day at the job site and a quiet evening in, Terrance woke up at 3 am with chest pains. "At first I thought it was indigestion," says Terrance. But the antacids didn't help and the pain began to spread from his chest into his shoulders, arms, neck and jaw. "I knew something was very, very wrong." And indeed it was. Terrance was having a heart attack.
He arrived at the Royal Alexandra Hospital and was immediately seen by Dr. William Hui, Chief of Cardiology. Dr. Hui performed an angiogram that showed serious blockages in his arteries. Terrance needed bypass surgery. "I was scared to death," he admits.
After 22 days in hospital, Terrance underwent open-heart surgery. Following an intensive rehabilitation process, he resumed his life, committed to making the changes that would help protect his health and his heart. If only things could have been that simple.
In the 13 years since his heart attack, Terrance has suffered three, very serious cardiac events. Each time he's come under the expert and insightful care of Dr. Hui, who Terrance now likes to refer to as "his mechanic." And the "tune-ups" have saved Terrance's life.
To address Terrance's condition, Dr. Hui has performed several angioplasties, a minimally invasive procedure that eliminates blockages in the arteries without the need for open heart surgery. Unbelievably, this highly intricate procedure is performed through a mere two-millimetre incision in either the wrist or groin.
These procedures take place in the catheterization lab, where Terrance describes the atmosphere as calm and comforting. "Last time, while I was being prepped, we were all talking golf. I love golf," Terrance smiles. "But when it came time to focus, this team focuses, and you know you're in good hands."
A sentiment that couldn't be more true, as the Cardiology department at the Royal Alexandra Hospital is an internationally-recognized leader in the minimally-invasive treatment of cardiac issues. The work being done here is so revolutionary, that physicians from around the world come to the Royal Alexandra Hospital to study it.
"Dr. Hui and his team aren't on the cutting edge; they're defining the edge," says Terrance.
Terrance will admit that his condition can be a little frightening, even to him. But he knows his body better now, and he takes better care of himself. He also takes a holistic approach to healing. "I spend time doing things I enjoy and bring balance into my life — like getting out for a round of golf, tinkering with my 1967 Corvette, or spending time with my grandchildren."
He also sips green tea instead of coffee, volunteers at a healthcare facility where he finds inspiration in the strength of its patients, and lives life with exuberance and courage.
"I've truly been blessed," Terrance says. "Dr. Hui is so passionate about this work, and I'm deeply grateful for the care that he, his team and this hospital have provided me."