The Saanich spawning ground of a heart-strengthening program is celebrating a $5,000 boost thanks to a like-minded Victoria-based organization.

A recent First Open Heart Society of B.C. donation ensures the Take Heart program at Saanich Commonwealth Place continues offering the 12-week cardiopulmonary rehabilitation program.

B次元官网网址淲e are grateful for the societyB次元官网网址檚 support for this vital program for people in our community with cardiac or chronic conditions,B次元官网网址� health services programmer Lisa Banks said in a news release. B次元官网网址淭hanks to this community partnership, more people can take steps to improve their health and quality of life.B次元官网网址�

Take Heart is a supervised exercise program benefiting those who have had a heart event, or other risk factors including high blood pressure, diabetes and lung or kidney disease. Commonwealth is one of three local locations the program is available. Saanich was the inaugural site for the Take Heart program developed in partnership with Island Health 23 years ago.

Dr. Victor Aldrete, vice-president of First Open Heart, says the organization is pleased to support the program and see it continue.

B次元官网网址淲hen someone has experienced a heart event or may be at risk of one, they need support to manage their heart health to the best of their ability. ThatB次元官网网址檚 where the Take Heart program comes in,B次元官网网址� Aldrete said.

The rehabilitation program offers individualized assessment, personal exercise plan, aerobic and strength training and informal risk factor information. Participants need a referral or doctorB次元官网网址檚 approval to register.