“I am forever grateful to the incredible team at Jersey City Medical Center for giving me a second chance at life. Their expertise and compassion have made all the difference.”
Legendary Latin American Telenovela superstar Clara "Zully" Montero recently reunited with the medical team at Jersey City Medical Center, an RWJBarnabas Health facility that transformed her life.
During the heartwarming reunion held on February 27th in honor of American Heart Month, Montero had the opportunity to thank the team of cardiologists, nurses, technicians and hospital leaders who managed her care.
Montero who is renowned for her prolific career in television, film, and theater, was suffering from Atrial Fibrillation (AFib), an irregular heartbeat that can lead to sudden cardiac arrest, stroke or even heart failure. She lived with this condition for 30 years and was hospitalized 11 times in just one year before finding hope and healing at Jersey City Medical Center (JCMC).
FACC, FAHA, FSCAI
In August 2024, Montero underwent an atrioventricular (AV) node ablation and had a pacemaker implanted at JCMC. Since then, she has been thriving with no hospitalizations and continues to follow up with her cardiologists, Dr. Kimberly Skelding, Division Chief of Cardiovascular Services, and Dr. David Dobesh, Cardiologist.
“Ms. Montero’s resilience and positive spirit are truly inspiring,” said Dr. Skelding. “It has been an honor to be part of her journey to better health, and her story underscores the importance of personalized, compassionate care.”
“I am forever grateful to the incredible team at Jersey City Medical Center for giving me a second chance at life,” said Montero. “Their expertise and compassion have made all the difference.”
Conor Barrett, MD, MBA, Senior Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer, Heart and Vascular Services for RWJBarnabas Health added, “Ms. Montero’s journey highlights the critical need for heart health awareness and our team's dedication to providing exceptional care is reflected in her recovery and thriving life.”
Forty three percent of Hispanic women in the United States have cardiovascular disease, according to the American Heart Association.
Montero now resides in Union City and has embraced a vibrant lifestyle since her pacemaker implantation. The Cuban-American actress is best known for her roles in Telenovela hits such as Marielena, El Rostro de Analia, and her role in the film Cape Fear.
No one plans on heart problems. But everyone should have a plan for them. Make your plan for heart health at Jersey City Medical Center. Get your heart checked.