Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation

It had been a fairly standard day for Dr. Tyrrell. Already having completed two operations at the CK Hui Heart Centre, he was on his way to the launch event for the Full House Lottery, as its proceeds would go to support cardiac care at the CK Hui. Naturally, as the Chief of Cardiology, his attendance had been requested, and he was more than happy to oblige.  

Catching an Uber to the event so he had the chance to review emails on the way, Dr. Tyrrell struck up a friendly conversation with his driver. As they spoke, Dr. Tyrrell’s career as a cardiologist came up, and it was rather convenient it did. 

As Dr. Tyrrell soon learned, his driver had been dealing with a heart murmur and had experienced difficulty getting in to see a cardiologist. He had tried for some time, but specialists had waitlists and bookings that needed to be completed, so finding availability that worked was a challenge.  

Dr. Tyrrell listened intently, knowing the importance of early diagnosis and treatment in circumstances like those his driver was facing. After hearing his driver’s concerns, Dr. Tyrrell gave him something he could not have expected. 

“You should come to an event we are having on the 22^nd at the West Edmonton Mall. Listen to your Heart. Staff from the CK Hui will be there, so you’ll be able to see a cardiologist for free on-site, no need for a booking or a wait!” 

Immediately, the driver’s eyes lit up. Somehow, he had lucked into a ride with a cardiologist, more than happy to strike up a conversation that led to a solution for the long waitlists and difficulty booking an appointment he was facing.  

The driver thanked Dr. Tyrrell, relieved by the prospect of getting to see a specialist without the hassle of trying to book an appointment and waiting for an available time. As they arrived at Dr. Tyrrell’s destination, he wished his driver good health and reminded him one last time to make sure he visited the event. 

Heart disease is one of the leading health concerns worldwide, and early detection is key in preventing more severe complications down the road. Dr. Tyrrell’s experience with the driver he met that day highlights a real issue: many people face waitlists and struggle to get in to see a cardiologist when early signs may arise. Fortunately, Listen to Your Heart is an event addressing that issue, helping to make heart care accessible to everyone. 

As part of Heart Month, on Heart Valve Disease Awareness Day—Saturday, February 22^nd, 2025, from 9 AM to 3 PM—you’re invited to West Edmonton Mall for a heart health checkup, completely free of charge. Professional cardiologists and nurses from the Royal Alexandra Hospital and CK Hui Heart Centre like Dr. Tyrrell will be available to assess your heart health and screen for early signs of heart disease. Whether you’re curious about your health, or have concerns you would like addressed, like the driver Dr. Tyrrell spoke with, this is the perfect occasion to get the expert care you need.  

To learn more about the event and what to expect, visit Listen to Your Heart | West Edmonton Mall for more information. 

Your Heart Matters. Make sure it gets the attention it deserves on February 22^nd—because a healthy heart is a foundation for a healthy life.