Specialized Cardiac Rehab Helps Woman Reclaim Her Confidence
Cardiac rehabiliation patient, grateful donor
“The MyMichigan rehab team was outstanding. They cared so much for me. They made sure they checked my oxygen multiple times during my sessions and helped me build my confidence.”
During a routine gynecology visit in 2000, Kathy Cozad, was surprised to learn she had a heart murmur. Further testing revealed she had suffered an aortic aneurysm without knowing it. During surgery, doctors discovered additional complications; the aneurysm had caused a dissection, a tear in her heart’s inner wall, and she needed a valve replacement.
After a successful open-heart procedure, Cozad underwent genetic testing to determine whether an underlying condition contributed to her diagnosis, but nothing was found. Almost 20 years later, she underwent genetic testing again and a mutation was detected. Known as ACTA2 positive, the mutation affects contraction of muscles or tissue and is associated with serious cardiovascular conditions. Cozad knew then that she would need monitoring by heart specialists throughout her life.
In 2025, she required surgery again to replace the heart valve initially repaired. Knowing about the genetic mutation this time, her surgical team also performed a graft patch and enlarged the aortic root; this opened up more options for future valve replacements and less invasive surgical options.
When seeking cardiac rehabilitation following her most recent surgery, Cozad looked for a facility close to home. A conversation with the team at MyMichigan Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehabilitation, located at MyMichigan Health Park Riverfront, convinced her it was the perfect fit. Her experience was so exceptional that she felt inspired to give back through a donation.
Cozad had gone through rehab before. What was different this time, though, was that she required oxygen after surgery. “Having had two months where I required oxygen to help me breathe comfortably after surgery made me feel a more cautious about engaging in rehab like I had previously,” said Cozad. “The MyMichigan rehab team was outstanding. They cared so much for me. They made sure they checked my oxygen multiple times during my sessions and helped me build my confidence.”
Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Coordinator Jason Weigle, M.S., and Exercise Physiologist Nicholas Ehlman, B.S., helped Cozad feel comfortable while ensuring she got the exercise needed to rebuild her heart strength. They monitored her oxygen levels as she completed exercises, reducing intensity when needed and providing encouragement when she was able to push a little harder.
“I know how important the rehab component of the healing process is for my heart,” Cozad said. “My therapists and I got into a great rhythm together. They were so friendly and kind, even playful. When you see therapists repeatedly over time, you get to know each other. You build relationships. I can’t imagine going through that process with crabby people.”
Cozad got stronger and more confident as she progressed. She enjoyed the camaraderie with other patients and was inspired by watching them getting stronger on bikes and treadmills. It helped motivate her.
“You’re not as fragile as you think you are,” said Cozad. “It’s ok to use the muscle they fixed, especially under the guidance of good therapists. Some may not think rehab is necessary, but I would disagree. In fact, I believe it should be a priority for healing and getting back to yourself.”
Cozad was so pleased with her rehabilitation experience she wanted to do something to help encourage others to follow through with it and even enhance their workouts. She and the Cozad Family Foundation made a monetary donation for gas cards for those in need to get to and from appointments. Her family foundation also funded a new True Fitness Gravity Recumbent Bike with LCD Screen.
“The addition of the recumbent bike is important to our program because it adds another option for patients during their sessions,” said Jason. “This bike helps patients build cardiovascular endurance while minimizing fall risk, so a wider range of patients are able to use it.”
“I asked the team what they thought would benefit the most patients, and we decided on the bike. It makes me feel good knowing others will get stronger using it,” said Cozad.
Cozad’s story is a fitting example of overcoming anxiety and uncertainty that some associate with cardiopulmonary rehabilitation. Because of her genetic mutation, a cardiac surgeon will always monitor Cozad. By completing rehab, she is giving herself the best possible chances of surviving whatever comes her way. That is inspiring.
Those who would like more information about MyMichigan Health’s Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program may visit www.mymichigan.org/heartrehab.
