Newberry Health Celebrates Exceptional Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab Patients of the Year
Newberry Health is proud to announce the recognition of two remarkable patients who have shown tremendous strength, determination, and progress in their rehabilitation journeys. Robert "Shane" Stroud and Douglas Macfarlane have been honored with the Cardiac Rehab Patient of the Year and Pulmonary Rehab Patient of the Year awards, respectively, by the South Carolina American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (SC AACVPR).
Both Shane and Doug have demonstrated unwavering commitment to improving their health and overcoming significant challenges, inspiring not only their fellow patients but also the entire healthcare team at Newberry Health. Their stories exemplify the importance of rehabilitation programs and the life-changing impact they can have on patients.
Cardiac Rehab Patient of the Year: Robert "Shane" Stroud
At 47, Shane Stroud faced an unexpected and life-threatening medical crisis when he experienced a Myocardial Infarction (heart attack) in August 2023. His condition was severe: he arrived at the Newberry Health Emergency Department with intense chest pain, signs of cardiogenic shock, and significant ST elevation on his EKG. He was quickly transferred to Richland Hospital for more advanced care, where he suffered a cardiac arrest before doctors could proceed with necessary revascularization.
Complications continued during his hospitalization, including pneumonia, acute hypoxic respiratory failure, and an acute kidney injury that required hemodialysis. After over a month in the hospital, Shane was discharged with a LifeVest and supplemental oxygen, but his recovery journey was far from over. Despite these setbacks, Shane showed extraordinary resilience and dedication throughout his cardiac rehabilitation.
From initially needing a rollator and supplemental oxygen, Shane's progress was nothing short of remarkable. Four months after his heart attack, he no longer required his LifeVest and could exercise without supplemental oxygen. His endurance and strength dramatically improved, with a 65% increase in functional capacity. Shane now participates in a full 60-minute exercise session that includes cardiovascular activities, resistance training, and a cool-down, all without needing support from assistive devices or oxygen. He continues to maintain his fitness routine at his local YMCA.
Shane’s success story serves as a testament to the importance of cardiac rehabilitation and the transformative power of perseverance.
Pulmonary Rehab Patient of the Year: Douglas Macfarlane
Douglas Macfarlane, a part-time funeral home worker and passionate horse owner, was nominated as the Pulmonary Rehab Patient of the Year for his exceptional work ethic and commitment to improving his health. Doug has been battling Stage 3 COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) for years, a condition worsened by a 50 pack-year history of smoking and exposure to formaldehyde in his previous work. Although Doug stopped smoking in 2014, the damage to his lungs had already taken a significant toll on his breathing and stamina.
Doug entered Newberry Health's pulmonary rehabilitation program with the goal of improving his energy and stamina so he could continue working with his horses and performing the job he loved. He embraced every recommendation made by his healthcare team, from proper use of inhalation therapies to nutritional changes and hydration. He also learned new breathing techniques to manage his symptoms more effectively.
The results of Doug’s efforts were impressive. His Shortness of Breath Questionnaire (SOBQ) score dropped from 34 to 7, indicating a significant improvement in his breathing. His CAT score decreased by 5 points, and his 6-minute walk test distance increased by 335 feet, a clear reflection of his improved stamina and endurance. Doug now reports that he has the stamina needed to continue his work both on the farm and at the funeral home, and he is no longer hindered by shortness of breath.
In addition to his remarkable recovery, Doug has continued to engage in the Wellness Program at Newberry Health, and his wife has also joined the program to support her own health journey. Doug shared that he didn’t realize just how compromised his breathing was until he experienced such a significant improvement.
A Collaborative Effort Toward Healthier Lives
Both Shane and Doug’s accomplishments wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and expertise of Newberry Health’s Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Team, which includes Kalyn Lake, Ashley Wessinger, Jaclyn Beaty, and Tammy Bodie. This team not only delivers outstanding care but also actively supports their patients throughout their journeys to better health and an improved quality of life
As part of the South Carolina AACVPR awards ceremony on Saturday, May 29, 2025, both Shane and Doug were honored for their outstanding achievements and will serve as inspirations to others seeking rehabilitation. The Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab programs at Newberry Health remain committed to helping patients achieve their health goals and lead more fulfilling lives.
Newberry Health is deeply proud of Shane and Doug’s progress, and we look forward to continuing our work with all our patients to help them achieve better health and wellness. Their stories remind us that with dedication, the right support, and a positive attitude, anything is possible.