“My experience here has been about connections and the people who have treated me well, gave me good medical care, and were very friendly. Thank you all for taking such good care of me.”
Every February, American Heart Month provides an opportunity to educate people about the importance of heart health. This year, Trinitas Regional Medical Center, an RWJBarnabas Health facility, invited Barbara Burke, a retired Elizabeth School teacher and former cardiac patient, to reunite with the clinicians who cared for her when she needed it most.
“Barbara’s story is one of perseverance and resilience,” says Nancy DiLiegro, PhD, FACHE, President/CEO of Trinitas. “Her journey is a testament to the strength of our community and the quality of care we provide.”
In 2019, Burke, who lives in Elizabeth, had a heart attack and was taken to the Emergency Department at Trinitas. While recovering from her heart procedure at home, she experienced symptoms that led to an ovarian cancer diagnosis that might have otherwise gone undetected.
"That day still sticks in my mind," she said to members of the Trinitas’ clinical team that tended to her before, during and after surgery, and especially during cardiac rehabilitation. “I am a believer, and I have faith that having a heart attack saved my life by leading me in the right direction with my other issues.”
Dr. Mirette Habib, the cardiologist who performed her angioplasty procedure, said, “Barbara was very sick when she came in, so I’m surprised she even remembers us. It’s so nice to see how well she’s doing. We have an amazing team that works so well together. It’s also nice to see how she put in the effort to take care of herself with cardiac and physical rehab.”
Unfortunately, cancer treatments pre-empted Burke’s cardiac rehabilitation. Then, the COVID pandemic interfered with her cardiac rehab schedule. But eventually, she would come to know Valerie Epps, Director of Physical Therapy. “Barbara is a woman who gives so much to others that it’s only fitting that we should honor her for American Heart Month,” said Epps. “Retirement has not slowed her down. At 78, she is still taking care of friends and family, and is an enthusiastic volunteer. …We thank her for making Trinitas her medical provider of choice.”
While in the ICU, Burke met a nurse who had been in one of her fourth-grade classes. “That was a joy for me,” said Burke. “…My experience here has been about connections and the people who have treated me well, gave me good medical care, and were very friendly. Thank you all for taking such good care of me."
During the reunion, Conor Barrett, MD, MBA, Senior Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer for Heart and Vascular Services of RWJBarnabas Health, said, “I took what you (Barbara) said to heart. The care you’ve received here is a testament to the people who have been instrumental in getting you to where you are in your recovery. Thank you for being you and for having such an investment in your own health.”
Barbara’s story reminds us that heart health is not just about treatment—it's about connections, community, and taking charge of your own well-being. No one can predict heart problems, but everyone can prepare for them. Don’t wait for a crisis—take proactive steps to protect your heart today. Make your plan for heart health at Trinitas Regional Medical Center. Get your heart checked.
Trinitas Regional Medical Center, an RWJBarnabas Health facility, is a full-service health care facility serving those living and working in Eastern and Central Union counties. The hospital was established in January 2000, following the consolidation of St. Elizabeth Hospital and Elizabeth General Medical Center.
Our Elizabeth, NJ hospital operates on two major campuses. Trinitas Regional Medical Center has 554 beds, including a 120-bed long-term care center, and Trinitas Regional Medical Center is proud to offer state-of-the-art medicine backed by compassion and competence.
Our friendly, professional staff includes skilled physicians who are the foundation of the care we provide. Together, our medical team offers the community the most advanced technological care in every area of medicine and surgery.