In November 2007, Johnna Templeton had a seizure caused by a leaking mitral valve. She was 67 years old. An air ambulance flew her to Medical Center of the Rockies in Loveland, Colorado.
A couple days later, Dr. Michael Stanton performed surgery on Johnna. She was told she had a 30 percent chance of living through the procedure, during which her chest was opened and reopened three times.
She stayed at Medical Center of the Rockies for about three months, then spent about five more months in rehabilitation and long term care.
Johnna's mom died of heart disease at 43. Johnna had her first triple bypass at 42. She has four children. Her oldest died in a car accident.
Johnna has a special relationship with Dr. Stanton. Others call her "Dr. Stanton's miracle girl."
After her experience at Medical Center of the Rockies, she wanted to give back. Now she volunteers at MCR.
She wants other women to know the signs of heart disease -- heavy chest, shortness of breath, fatigue -- and to get care if they experience those symptoms.
To learn more about heart care at Poudre Valley Health System, visit www.pvhs.org/heart.
University of Colorado Health employees dedicate themselves to providing patients and other customers with world-class care and service. Outside organizations recognize that, calling University of Colorado Health's hospitals some of the best in Colorado and even the best in the nation. Some of those accolades are listed below:
University of Colorado Health Fort Collins, Colorado 970.495.7000 PVHS@pvhs.org
