My story: What makes Melvin tick
Melvin and Elaine are a team when it comes to keeping Melvin's congestive heart failure symptoms in check.
Melvin has been plagued by serious health concerns. Some are genetic, part of his family history. Some are simply from old age. And some, he knows, grew out of his own habits – especially heavy smoking and “too much food.” Unsinkable and upbeat Melvin lives with congestive heart failure. A pacemaker, installed after a heart attack. Diabetes with complications, like kidney and foot problems. Prostate cancer. His hardworking farmer’s hands are a bit gnarled and minus a few fingers.
His primary physician at GRHS is Dr. Preman Singh, who fondly describes Melvin as “a firecracker.” He has helped Melvin to understand how smoking and extra weight contributed to his heart disease, and at a price. Melvin recalls, “After the first heart troubles, I had to quit farming.”
A self-proclaimed “ornery German,” Melvin uses a walker but still manages to climb onto his pride and joy – a John Deere tractor parked out front – to mow his lovely, large lawn. His pacemaker was replaced in December 2008, so “that’s all set,” he says. The cardiac rehab staff at GRHS monitored his recovery after the surgery.
Dr. Singh says, “Melvin’s great attitude keeps him ticking despite his health challenges.” His wife, Elaine, accompanies Melvin to his appointments, and Dr. Singh calls her “a gem.” She nods sideways toward her spouse. “I really just want to know what Dr. Singh’s orders are so I can keep an eye on him!”
Dr. Singh acknowledges that physical activity isn’t easy for a person who isn’t strong or steady, but he challenges Melvin to lose weight. “He does his best.” And despite the frustrations of chronic illness on many fronts, Melvin enjoys visiting with Dr. Singh. The expert, personal care he receives at GRHS keeps Melvin’s big heart beating.
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