Navigating the Unexpected with Lima Memorial by Your Side

posted on: 5/23/2025 11:00:25 AM

Meet Tom and Sandy

When Sandy’s cardiac health took an unexpected turn, she and her husband, Tom, found themselves on an unexpected journey. Their experience at Lima Memorial became more than a medical intervention—it became a testament to the compassion and deep human connections that define Lima Memorial’s Great Care.

It all started with a routine calcium screening that revealed concerning results, prompting further tests. Dr. Masroor Abro at Lima Memorial’s Heart & Vascular Institute Sidney location recommended a stress test and echocardiogram. When the stress test came back with concerning results, they were referred to Lima Memorial for diagnostic cardiac catheterization.

“We were thinking a stent or two,” Tom recalled. “Unfortunately, there was a major blockage in one of Sandy’s main arteries, and they scheduled a surgical procedure and open-heart surgery with Dr. V. Simon Abraham.”

The surgery was complex, but Sandy’s care team worked tirelessly to address her needs. She faced a range of challenges, but with the expertise and dedication of the Lima Memorial team, she made progress in her recovery.

“We couldn’t be more pleased,” Tom shares. “The entire staff at Lima Memorial has done an excellent job. Very skilled nurses. What I see is a very collegial and friendly staff. Sandy and I couldn’t be happier.”

Sandy, a retired nurse, reflected on the comfort and reassurance she felt during her recovery, sharing, “One nurse held my hand for a long time until Tom could get there, and I felt very comfortable with all the nurses around me that they knew what to do. It was very reassuring to have what I thought were very expert nurses taking care of me.”

Sandy also expressed great appreciation for the therapists on the rehabilitation team, nursing assistants and nursing students, as well as the pastoral services team, all of whom provided support and kindness that made a meaningful impact on her healing journey.

During Sandy’s time in the ICU and rehab, she and Tom experienced not only excellent medical care, but also the warmth and compassion Lima Memorial is known for. While at the hospital, they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a small, heartfelt gathering arranged by the care team—complete with a commemorative 50^th anniversary candle from the Lima Memorial Auxiliary Gift Shop.

“We have hospital experience ourselves, so we’re not naive to hospital environments,” Tom said. “But we found everybody here worked as a well-oiled machine. If you told somebody something, the message continued on.”

If you’ve had a positive experience at Lima Memorial or want to recognize a caregiver who made a difference, consider sharing your story. Visit Lima Memorial's Recognize and Thank a Caregiver page to express your appreciation.