For Vivek, Royal North Shore Hospital (RNSH) has been more than a place of treatment – it’s been a lifeline.
As a corporate professional who’s worked 70-hour weeks over many years, Vivek, who is now in his late 40s, lived in a constant state of stress. Diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and ADHD, he rarely slept for more than a few hours a night. Yet, despite his own challenges, he always found time to volunteer and help others.
Vivek’s journey through RNSH
In 2023, Vivek had his gallbladder removed at RNSH. The following year, a sleep study by Dr Emily Kemp from the RNSH Sleep & Breathing Specialist Centre revealed that he had been living with extreme sleep apnoea over several years. He was soon enrolled on a clinical trial with access to a fully funded Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP).
“It completely changed my life,” recalls Vivek. “Before that, I didn’t know what eight hours of sleep felt like.”
Rushed to RNSH following a heart event
In late April 2025, Vivek was driving on the motorway when he was suddenly struck by crushing chest pain. Despite the intense discomfort, he managed to safely get his family to their destination. At the time, he had no idea just how serious his symptoms really were.
The following day, a visit to his doctor quickly revealed the gravity of the situation. Alarmed by Vivek’s symptoms, the doctor urgently referred him to Dr Stephen Vernon, an interventional cardiologist at RNSH.
That afternoon, Dr Vernon reviewed Vivek’s blood test results, and the elevated troponin levels confirmed that he had suffered a heart event. Not long after, Vivek was admitted into RNSH.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in Australia.
Every 9 minutes, someone has a heart attack and 50% of them will have never had a single symptom.
The following day, Vivek was scheduled for heart surgery. Not knowing if it would be an open-heart or a stent procedure, Vivek placed his trust in Dr Vernon to decide the best course of action in the operating theatre.
“I had three blockages and had two stents inserted,” said Vivek. “I went home the next day with medications including blood thinners, calcium channel blockers and ACE inhibitors.”
The weeks following surgery were very challenging for Vivek as he experienced extreme brain fog and exhaustion and struggled with routine tasks. Thankfully, his employer was very supportive and encouraged him to take the time he needed to rest and recover.
At his follow-up appointment, Dr Vernon recommended that Vivek join the RNSH Cardiac Rehabilitation program. For Vivek, who is neurodivergent and naturally reserved in social situations, the idea was daunting. Hesitant but understanding its importance, he reluctantly agreed. He was both embarrassed and nervous about what was in store for him.
Cardiac Rehabilitation at RNSH changed his outlook
“Cardiac rehabilitation is not just physical therapy and clinical support,” said Nurse Manager Maura Farrell. “It’s also about emotional support for people recovering from heart events.”
Vivek attended classes twice a week for six weeks. At first, he felt self-conscious about his lack of fitness, but the therapists and fellow patients welcomed him with warmth and understanding.
Despite his initial reluctance, Vivek soon found himself looking forward to each class.
“I was surrounded by people with shared experiences,” he says. “Some had been through longer journeys, but the outpouring of energy and compassion in the room was healing.”
The meaningful conversations with the staff made a huge impact, and he says the biggest lesson he learned was to slow down and focus on the basics of life.
The rehab team gave Vivek more than exercises – they gave him confidence and a renewed outlook, while helping him take care of his heart. He now prioritises his physical health, nutrition and mental wellbeing. Most importantly, he is more present for his family.
“The staff gave us graduation certificates and said they don’t want to see us again,” Vivek recalls with a smile. “But I’ll never forget them and how they changed my life.”
His wife, who lives with a debilitating autoimmune condition, receives regular infusions at RNSH. Their teenage daughter, who is autistic, also requires ongoing support and several hours of therapy every week. Vivek knows he must stay well to take care of them.
Vivek continues to be monitored by Dr Vernon, and while he may require open heart surgery in the future, he knows that he will continue to receive exceptional care at RNSH.
If you would like to support the cardiac rehabilitation unit at RNSH and be a lifeline for patients recovering from heart events, please donate here.
