Patient Stories

At Henry Ford Health, we don’t just treat illness or disease. We treat people. Our patients’ lives are touched by the compassion, dedication and expertise of our staff in thousands of different ways every day, whether it’s a lifesaving treatment or simply a reassuring smile and kind word. Every patient’s story is unique. We are grateful for those who allow us to share their stories here.

Life-Changing Experiences

After successful heart surgery to repair a defective heart valve and an aneurysm, Tom is back to helping save lives as a firefighter.

Teamwork Saves a Life

Ever since his heart stopped suddenly while playing hockey at the Optimist Ice Arena in Jackson, Sheldon Brafford says that he knows who his friends are and what is truly important in life.

 

Motivation from the Heart

Ten years ago, Scott Salow was one of the youngest people to have open-heart surgery at the Henry Ford Heart and Vascular Center - Jackson.

 

Walking the Halls Much Easier

Knee pain may have saved Western School District Superintendent Michael Smajda from a major heart attack.

 

Bringing Cars Back to Life

Restoring classic cars can be rewarding, but the hard work takes a toll on the body. This was the case for classic car specialist Ron Hausmann, who started to experience pain in his hips and joints.

 

Active and Energized

After successful open-heart surgery at Henry Ford Jackson Hospital, Rochelle says she has more energy and is more active than she has been in a long time.

 

Feeling Stronger

As someone who hit the gym hard four to five times a week, Carl Miller thought he was immune to cardiac disease—until his first heart attack at age 43.

 

The Best Gift

After suffering a massive heart attack, Bryan Runstadler was rushed to Henry Ford Macomb Hospital and received life-saving emergency cardiac support and bypass surgery.

 

"I’m Grateful Every Day"

"They got be back on my feet right away and that helped me get back to my farm work,” he said. “I didn’t sit in a recliner after retirement, and I couldn’t just sit still after my surgery."

The Right Call

Within seven months of having quadruple bypass surgery at Henry Ford Jackson Hospital, Scott was back on the field refereeing varsity football, and was able to referee the entire basketball season.