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Morgan Almer’s journey to health is a powerful reminder of the importance of regular check-ups. Morgan, an avid baseball fan, had no symptoms before he discovered a significant health issue during a routine physical.

His father passed away from a heart attack, which prompted his wife to encourage him to get screened. Eventually, he met with Dr. Mertz, who suggested a heart screening. The results stunned Morgan: a calcium score of 1815—far above the 400 threshold that indicates high risk.

Morgan’s situation called for further testing. During an angiogram, doctors found multiple blockages: one completely blocked artery and others significantly narrowed. Faced with two stark options, Morgan chose triple bypass surgery. The surgery lasted nearly eight hours, but it gave him a new lease on life.

Afterward, he joined Essentia Cardiac Rehab, where a dedicated team helped him regain his health and confidence. They closely monitored his progress as he got back to activities like biking and walking. Morgan was deeply moved by the level of care he received; he felt an intimate connection with his doctors, especially Dr. Canver, who physically held his heart during surgery.

His story highlights the crucial role of screening. According to the American Heart Association, heart disease remains a leading cause of death in the U.S., taking more than 697,000 lives annually. Many cases, like Morgan’s, go unnoticed until it’s too late. Regular screenings can catch potential issues early, allowing for intervention before it’s critical.

Morgan emphasizes the importance of advocating for one’s health: “If you need a test, ask for it.” His experience also sparked discussions on social media about how often people prioritize their health over other commitments. Many shared stories of how late diagnoses changed their lives.

Ultimately, Morgan feels grateful for his second chance. His experience serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of understanding our health and being proactive about it.



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Essentia, Essentia Health, Duluth, Minnesota, Heart Failure