Caring for the heart, from the heart
When Penny Hunsberger was in college, complications from her grandfather’s heart failure prevented him from playing one of his favorite pastimes: golf. “He would go to the hospital, take a diuretic and then go straight to the golf course,” says Hunsberger. “I would tease him that I don’t think it was part of his discharge instructions. He would tell me that was the only time he felt fit enough to play.”
25 years later, Hunsberger is a practicing nurse at IU Health in west-central Indiana, specializing in the treatment of congestive heart failure (CHF). Her position was made possible through the philanthropic support of the Gary and Shelly Henriott Foundation and the IU Health Foundation.
According to the CDC, nearly 5 million Americans are currently living with CHF. “CHF patients are at high risk and are vulnerable, and are often readmitted,” said Ashley Pleasant, charity director for IU Health West Central Region. “By having a location for this high-risk population, we can help patients adhere to their plan of care.”
Hunsberger works with Crystal Davit, a fellow nurse, to ensure these patients get extra time and are followed up on a regular basis. “We are able to build relationships with our patients during this time and are truly honored to have their trust,” says Hunsberger. “Through all these visits, you get to know your patients and what matters most to them: going to their grandchildren’s games, working in the garden, vacationing in Florida. It is rewarding to see that the work we do makes a difference in their quality of life.”
Hunsberger appreciates the philanthropy that has helped her work. “It takes someone special to see the needs of others and be willing to give them hard earned money,” says Hunsberger. “The generosity of those donors is greatly appreciated. We’re working diligently to make sure it’s worth their investment.”