Stephanie Leigh Hall knows about keeping rhythm and beat. She is a well-known musician around Northwest Florida, so it is nothing new to her. She also found a new rhythm of life as the very first heart surgery patient at the new Baptist Hospital campus.

Hall's journey began with concerns about her health, particularly experiencing shortness of breath while lugging her guitar equipment to performances. Despite enduring these symptoms for two years, attributions from others suggested they were typical for someone of her age and weight.

However, Hall remained convinced that her experience was far from ordinary. Determined to find answers, she sought out a new primary care provider, eventually connecting with Kendall Henry, PA-C, who paid attention to her concerns and promptly ordered a lung scan after reviewing her family history.

The results revealed an ascending aortic aneurysm, a condition in which the upper part of the aorta, the body's main artery, becomes enlarged, increasing the risk of rupture or tear. Hall was subsequently referred to cardiothoracic surgeon Russell S. Ronson, M.D., FACS, FACC, of the Baptist Heart & Vascular Institute, who swiftly scheduled surgery for an ascending aortic replacement within two weeks. The procedure involved the removal of the affected portion of the aorta, replaced with a synthetic graft.

Dr. Ronson emphasized the comprehensive heart program offered at Baptist, reassuring patients of the institution's capability to provide top-tier care without the need to seek treatment elsewhere.

Throughout her hospital stay, Hall praised the compassionate care provided by the staff, particularly highlighting the support and guidance offered by her nurse, Michael, during every stage of her recovery.

With surgery behind her, Hall has since embarked on her rehabilitation journey with Baptist's Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation program. As she continues to regain her health, she has joyfully resumed her passion for performing, gracing audiences with her musical talents once more.

Hall's story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of advocating for one's health and listening to one's instincts when facing medical concerns.

For individuals seeking more information about primary care or heart and vascular services at Baptist, further details are available at ebaptisthealthcare.org.