A heart attack brought Tina to cardiac rehab at Mercy Health — St. Charles Hospital. There, your gift to support the Heart Care Fund at Mercy Health Foundation — Greater Toledo is helping her feel better in every way.

“When I first went in, I was so scared I wouldn’t be able to do it,” Tina says. “The nurses are wonderful. They’re helpful and encouraging. They are right there with you.”

When she started, Tina couldn’t even lift her feet onto the pedals of the step machine. But after only a few sessions, she progressed from using a wheelchair during therapy to a walker. Now she moves from station to station independently.

In addition to physical therapy, your gift supports nutrition classes that have already paid dividends for Tina. Her doctors have reduced her blood pressure medications by half.

“We’re learning to make our hearts stronger,” Tina says. “How to read labels and the right kinds of foods to eat, and all the different exercises to do. And how to have a healthy mindset and deal with our fears. The people in that classroom are like family. I love it.”

Tina’s family has provided tremendous support and encouragement throughout her recovery. She also credits the rehab staff and donors who make it all possible. But she knows that her greatest strength comes from her faith.

“I couldn’t do any of this without God’s help. I really believe that with all my heart,” she says.