GP referral scheme helps save heart attack sufferer's life

John Warriner, 67, had his first episode of three heart attacks in as many hours while working as a delivery driver.

He was in the right place at the right time - his job had taken him to a doctors' surgery to drop off some medicines.

He was given emergency treatment at Eastbourne District General Hospital, where he was implanted with an ICD defibrillator, and was later given a rehabilitation course.

It was recommended to John that he should join an exercise programme to aid his recovery and make several lifestyle changes.

In November, John's GP referred him with the backing of the DGH's Phase Three department to the Oasis Programme, run by Bexhill's Freedom Leisure Centre.

Oasis instructor Jane Fletcher took John in hand and produced a tailor-made exercise regime for him, which gradually built up twice a week over the 10-week course.

Soon after completing the course, John suffered another heart attack due to a new health issue.

He said, "Two separate consultants said that if I hadn't been through the Oasis programme I would have not survived this last episode.

"The level of fitness gained meant I was strong enough to cope with this last attack.

"I'm really grateful to Jane for her support.

"I would urge anyone recovering from a heart attack to get yourself to your GP and find out what your options are for an exercise prescription."

John has signed up for a six-month gym membership and also takes regular walks along Bexhill seafront to boost his health.

He hopes to return to part-time work, but hopes his next delivery to a doctors' surgery won't have such life-threatening consequences.

Oasis instructor Jane Fletcher said, "We currently have 11 people on our GP referral scheme and we are keen to expand our scheme to the local community.

"There are significant benefits for clients with cardiac and pulmonary problems, athsma, diabetes, osteoporosis and depression.

"Sometimes clients are nervous about taking exercise after illness but, where necessary, we liaise with their GP to make sure they are happy with their programmes."

'¢ Patients who think they could benefit from Freedom Leisure's Oasis Programme should make enquiries through their medical practice or contact Freedom Leisure on 0845 337 4040 or visit the website at www.freedom-leisure.co.uk

The programme covers an initial 20 sessions in a 10-week period and costs 75 on a pre-paid rate. This saves 18.50 on pay-as-you-go prices, which cost 4 a session.