Reiner Petras
Coronary artery disease runs in Reiner's family, so he was always looking for symptoms. However, in this case, he had none that stood out to him.
Five years ago, Reiner Petras of Germany was living his best life vacationing in Florida when he experienced sudden cardiac arrest. Reiner and his wife, Inga were at a local dance studio, taking a break from ballroom dancing when he suddenly slumped over. A bystander performed CPR until paramedics arrived and brought him to HCA Florida Largo Hospital Emergency Room.
Coronary artery disease runs in Reiner’s family; therefore, he was always looking for symptoms – in this case, he had none that stood out to him. After several weeks of cardiac interventions, surgery and care, Reiner was finally discharged home to Germany.
“This gentleman was extremely sick and had a high chance of not making it. He was treated aggressively with mechanical support and surgery. I did not suspect he would survive. Miraculously, he has made a complete recovery and is fully functional due to our care and a heart team approach. It is a true holiday miracle!” shared Dr. Merrill Krolick, interventional cardiologist.
This holiday season, Reiner came back to Florida and requested a reunion with his care team, including Felicia Mennen, cardiac surgery nurse coordinator who cared for him during his stay.
“This reunion with Reiner after 5 years makes me feel happiness for he and his family and pride for our healthcare team at Largo. This is the positive aspect of healthcare and why most of us make a career in healthcare. A successful result is what we desire for all our patients. His life after sudden death has been happy and fulfilling. He has had a second chance at life and that brings me joy” shared Felicia.