How one gene makes all the difference

When Randy Shelley suffered a heart attack at the age of 46, he didn’t realize his experience would be a catalyst that allowed him to safeguard the health of the people he loves.

“My father and grandfather passed away from heart attacks, but no one in my family knew that cardiac episodes were hereditary,” he said. “What we assumed might have been a stroke of bad luck was a situation that allowed us to discover a new truth. My physicians and nurses not only saved my life, but they also taught me a lot.”

The medical staff at Baptist Health didn’t stop at helping Randy get back on his feet. They introduced him to a heart stress test and educated him there were preventative measures he could take to keep history from repeating itself.

“I had never heard of a heart stress test,” he said. “I have brothers and sisters who are also at risk of developing cardiac issues based on our inherited genes. Through passing this knowledge to my siblings and my own children, we are able to evaluate their heart function and blood flow to take proactive measures to hopefully prevent them from suffering similar circumstances.”

Following Randy’s experience with Baptist Health and the friendship he developed with his physician, he joined the board of directors for Baptist Health Foundation Lexington.

“My heart attack propelled me into thinking long-term for my health. It isn’t just about the care that I received, it’s about ensuring that healthcare continues to grow and develop and can be there when we all need it. From my friends and family to anyone who resides in this region, great healthcare is something we should all have access to and with the opening of Baptist Health Hamburg, that is becoming more of a reality.”

Through contributions to heart care in the new facility, Randy is hoping to help make a difference when someone needs it most. “I have been blessed personally and professionally, and giving back is important to me.”

“From the moment you step foot into Baptist Health, from the environmental services staff to the providers, there is a feeling that I can’t sum up in words. The care that each employee exhibits goes beyond a job. They are there because they care, and I am giving back because I want people I love and care about to have the ability to get the type of care that you can only get at a Baptist Health facility. It isn’t a job to the people there, it is a calling, and it makes all the difference.”