Inspiration & Motivation: A Two-way Street

A year ago Director of Cardiopulmonary Services, Sarah Edwards, RRT, CPFT, started working for Island Health. She was immediately struck by the inspirational environment she found herself in. The staff regularly helped motivate their patients to reach their goals of improving breathing and increasing physical function. She watched the Cardiopulmonary team of respiratory therapists, registered nurses, pulmonologists and exercise physiologists create real, lasting relationships with their patients.

It was at this time that she herself felt disappointed in her own physical fitness. Watching what her patients were determined to accomplish, she was encouraged to take charge of her own health. “I was so inspired by every patient who was enrolled in the program. I found their motivation and desire to improve to be contagious. It was the Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation patients and staff that motivated me to set a big goal for myself: a half marathon,” said Sarah.

After a year of training Sarah was ready. On April 24th this year, she ran in the Whidbey Island Half Marathon. When she saw Cardiopulmonary patient Deann Whipple at the starting line she was thankful for the support and encouragement. Sarah had no idea Deanne would stay for the whole event and would be there cheering her across the finish line. “Patient/provider relationships are so special,” says Sarah.

We see this kind of strong friendship develop on a regular basis at Island Health. The support and encouragement fostered at Island Health often develops into lasting friendships. “I am so grateful for the support and friendships I have developed at Island Health,” says Sarah.

Learn more about our services:

Cardiac Rehabilitation and Pulmonary Rehabilitation
360.299.4242