Santé Health Foundation and The Heart Group make record-breaking donation to Saint Agnes Cardiac Rehabilitation and Lifestyle Program

Fresno, CA—Saint Agnes received a record-breaking gift of $150,000 from Santé Health Foundation and The Heart Group, with funds benefiting the Cardiac Rehabilitation and Lifestyle Program. This is the single largest gift to the Cardiac Rehab program in the hospital’s 96-year history.

Established in 1979, the Cardiac Rehabilitation and Lifestyle Program was the first of its kind in the Central Valley. It was also the first to be certified by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation. The program is supervised by registered nurses and exercise physiologists who monitor participants throughout a program of up to 36 EKG-monitored visits. Cardiac Rehab supports recovering heart surgery patients and/or long-time Valley residents who seek to enhance their cardiovascular health after a heart event or procedure.
 

“We are grateful for our partnership with Saint Agnes Foundation and for the incredible work of their physicians, nurses, therapists, and caregivers who make a meaningful difference every day,” says Scott Wells, Executive Director of Santé Health Foundation. “Cardiac rehabilitation plays a vital role in helping individuals recover, regain strength, and improve their quality-of-life following cardiac events and procedures. Through this contribution, we are proud to support Saint Agnes Foundation’s continued efforts to provide compassionate, innovative, and life-changing care for patients and their families. This investment reflects our deep commitment to improving the health and well-being of our community and ensuring patients have access to the critical care and recovery resources they need close to home. Together, we are building a healthier future for our community.”

 

“The Heart Group is proud to partner in supporting cardiac rehabilitation services that strengthen the health of our Central Valley community,” says Dr. Shaukat Ali, President, The Heart Group. “This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to providing patients with access to comprehensive, high-quality cardiovascular recovery care close to home — helping them heal, regain confidence, and improve their long-term heart health after cardiac illness and intervention.”

 

“Together, we can redefine recovery – advancing cardiac rehabilitation so every patient has the chance to thrive, not just survive,” says Dr. Usman Javed, The Heart Group Cardiologist.

 

“We are deeply grateful for Santé Health Foundation and The Heart Group’s generous $150,000 investment in Cardiac Rehabilitation and the healing mission of Saint Agnes,” says Sara K. Frauenheim, Chief Development Officer. “This gift not only expands access to compassionate, life-changing cardiac care for our community, but also strengthens a valued partnership rooted in shared purpose and service. Together, we are helping patients recover with dignity, hope, and the support they need to live healthier lives.”

Cardiac Rehab sees approximately 24,000 patients annually, a 39 percent jump since last fiscal year. The program also hosts Heart & Soul, a FREE, 8-week program designed to help women improve cardiac health, lose weight, lower total cholesterol, begin an exercise routine and adopt a healthier diet.

For more information about Cardiac Rehabilitation and Lifestyle Program, visit www.samc.com/cardiac-rehab.