MENDED HEARTS OF COACHELLA VALLEY # 281
JULY – SEPTEMBER 2026
*** PRESIDENT – BILL STARK
It is our hope that this newsletter will get into your hands via our new website.
https://bit.ly/MendedHeartsofCoachellaValley
Check it out as this is our new medium and the newsletter will no longer be printed in hard copy. We hope that you will embrace this new approach and give Carl Rushing your ideas to improve content.
In April 2018, upon the departure of Ron and Rosanna Langley, we were blessed to have Jaime and Faye Chow step up and become our Treasurer and Secretary respectively.
Sadly, Faye’s beloved husband passed away in 2019, but Faye willingly stayed on as Secretary. During her tenure, we have all been recipients of her wonderful meeting minutes both at the Board level and transcriptions of talks given by the many physicians, nurses and others. After all of these years of dedication, Faye has asked to step down. Thankfully, she is willing to continue until we can recruit another Secretary. Thank you, Faye, for your outstanding work, all your suggestions, and for being such a beautiful friend.
NEW SECRETARY NEEDED! I’m appealing to our membership for someone to seriously consider becoming Mended Hearts of Coachella Valley’s next Secretary. Clearly, someone in our membership of over 110 is itching to be a part of our Board and help us continue in the future. Please contact either Faye or myself, Bill, with your excitement to participate.
CARDIAC NURSE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM...WOW!!! This was our most successful program since scholarships were first offered many years ago. Thanks to the hard work by many and some wonderful donations during this year’s fund raising efforts spearheaded by Dan and Ingrid Twohey, the Board approved four scholarships at Desert Regional Medical Center and eleven at Eisenhower Medical Center...15 $1,000.00 awards. Check out the group photos and all of the smiling faces of the recipients. To date we have awarded 79 scholarships of varying amounts to these special nurses between the two hospitals.
It is this Chapter’s honor and privilege to recognize these nurses for their hard work and dedicated work, not only while taking care of us while in the hospital, but recognizing their educational pursuits. We especially thank our generous donors!!!
*** CARL RUSHING – VICE PRESIDENT/PROGRAMS
Summer Sizzles, Smiles & Support!
Mended Hearts of Coachella Valley – 2026 Summer Luncheon & Fundraising Series
Who says summer in the desert means staying indoors? At Mended Hearts of Coachella Valley, we're turning up the fun with three exciting luncheon gatherings that combine friendship, fellowship, and fundraising for a great cause!
Whether you're a longtime member, a new friend, a caregiver, or simply someone who enjoys good food and great company, we invite you to join us for our 2026 Summer Luncheon & Fundraising Series. Come reconnect with old friends, make new ones, and help support our mission of bringing hope and encouragement to heart patients throughout the Coachella Valley.
Every Meal Makes a Difference
This year, our summer luncheon partners have gone above and beyond by supporting Mended Hearts through special Dine-to-Donate fundraising events. When you dine with us—or even order takeout—you'll be helping our chapter continue its work of patient visits, educational programs, support meetings, community outreach, and nursing scholarships.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to P.F. Chang's, Stuft Pizza Bar & Grill, and Red Robin for their generosity and commitment to serving our community.
Summer Luncheon Schedule
July: Wok This Way!
P.F. Chang's Rancho Mirage
Thursday, July 9, 2026
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
71800 Hwy 111, Suite C-104
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Kick off the summer with delicious Asian-inspired favorites, lively conversation, and plenty of fellowship. Best of all, P.F. Chang's will donate 10% of all food and non-alcoholic beverage sales generated by our supporters throughout the day. Dine in, order takeout, or schedule delivery and help support Mended Hearts!
August: Pizza, Friends & Fundraising
Stuft Pizza Bar & Grill
Thursday, August 13, 2026
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
72840 Highway 111, Suite # 465
Palm Desert, CA 92260
What could be better than pizza with friends? Stuft Pizza has reserved its back room just for us and is generously donating 10% of the entire day's revenue to Mended Hearts of Coachella Valley. Bring your appetite, your family, and your friends for an afternoon filled with laughter and community spirit.
September: Burgers for a Bigger Cause
Red Robin Rancho Mirage
Thursday, September 10, 2026
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
72-797 Dinah Shore Dr.
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
We're wrapping up the summer with an extraordinary fundraising opportunity! Red Robin is donating an incredible 20% of the entire day's revenue to Mended Hearts of Coachella Valley. Whether you stop by for lunch, dinner, or a quick bite with friends, you'll be helping support heart patients and families throughout our valley.
Come for the Food. Stay for the Heart.
Our luncheons are about much more than a meal. They're an opportunity to connect with others who understand the heart journey, share stories, celebrate successes, and enjoy the friendships that make Mended Hearts such a special organization.
These gatherings are open to members, supporters, caregivers, family, and friends. The more people who participate, the greater the impact we can make together.
RSVP Requested
Please RSVP to:
Faye Chow
Email: jaimeandfaye@verizon.net
Phone: (760) 341-5706
Mark your calendars, invite a friend, and join us for a summer filled with good food, good company, and good deeds.
Together, we're strengthening hearts—one meal, one friendship, and one act of support at a time.
Stay Connected!
For more information about Mended Hearts of Coachella Valley, upcoming meetings, patient support services, volunteer opportunities, and chapter events, please visit our website:
https://bit.ly/MendedHeartsofCoachellaValley
You can also scan the QR code below to access our website directly from your smartphone or tablet.
Learn more about how Mended Hearts of Coachella Valley is supporting heart patients, caregivers, and families throughout our community—and discover how you can become part of our mission of hope, support, education, and encouragement.
You're never alone on your heart journey.
*** SECRETARY – FAYE CHOW
MENDED HEARTS OF COACHELLA VALLEY, CHAPTER 281
OPEN FORUM MEEETING: APRIL 9, 2026, 12:00 – 1:00 PM
HEART BEAT: A CARDIOLOGY Q & A
Dr. Dinesh Sharma, Interventional Cardiologist with Eisenhower Desert Cardiology Center, conducted an open forum meeting for the general public as well as the members of Mended Hearts Chapter 281. Accredited Mended Hearts Patient Visitors, Carolyn Warner and Dick Freiman both thanked Dr. Sharma for participating in the open forum and commended him for his exceptional ability to conduct numerous TAVR procedures in a single day, in addition to establishing a sincere relationship with his patients. A number of members in the audience were concerned with the reliability of the usual tests for detecting impending heart failure (stress test, CAT scan, EKG). He suggested continued follow-up with one’s doctor, especially if there is a history of shortness of breath and/or chest pain. A Holter monitor may be indicated, and there is also a portable EKG that can help detect AFib. Dr. Sharma confirmed the inquiry of a person who had a heart transplant that he will not have normal symptoms if he has a heart problem, such as chest pain or shortness of breath. He replied affirmatively to a question regarding AI, that it can be helpful in determining the condition of one’s heart, and predicted that eventually there will be non-invasive tests. We also learned that the statins that are prescribed to treat atherosclerosis, although they have many side-effects, are used in order to stabilize the plaque in the arteries so that it doesn’t break up and get carried to the brain. All the questions were beneficial in generating explanations of how tests or treatments worked and how the body responds, helping to understand the rationale for their use. In addition to the bountiful education provided by Dr. Sharma, it was preceded by a delicious luncheon with a buffet of a variety of savory Mexican dishes.
MENDED HEARTS OF COACHELLA VALLEY, CHAPTER 281
MEETING MINUTES: MAY 14, 2026
The twenty-eighth in a series of meetings starting October, 2022, held in partnership with the Community Education Department at Eisenhower Health (EH), was conducted via Zoom and in-person at the Annenberg Health Sciences Building on May 14, 2026. Attendees: 42 in-person and via Zoom. President Bill Stark opened the meeting at 6:00 PM with an overview of the Mended Hearts organization, followed by a report on the chapter’s recent scholarship awards. A total of 15 cardiac nurses (4 from Desert Regional and 11 from Eisenhower Health) were presented with a check for $1000 each to assist them in continuing their education to further their careers in cardiac nursing. Bill credited the efforts of Board members Dan and Ingrid Twohey for obtaining significant amounts for the fund, and also some very generous donations from individuals. He then introduced the speaker, Dr. Philip Shaver, cardiologist, who has been with EH for approximately 30 years, and is also a Captain in the U. S. Navy Reserve. The topic for his discussion is:
Let’s Stay Mended: 2026 Guidelines in Dyslipidemia Management
Dr. Shaver described his history at EH, beginning in1978, in various capacities over the years, such as Chief of Cardiology, Cath lab director, EMC Director of Medical Education, et al. He himself has undergone heart surgery, endured 3 weeks in the hospital, and completed 3 months of cardiac rehab. Tonight he presented new guidelines for cardiac rehabilitation with regard to lipid management. According to the findings of a Swedish study of patients who underwent coronary artery bypass graft(CABG) surgery and continued the use of statins afterwards, there were significant reductions in cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, stroke, dementia and all-cause mortality, compared to patients who discontinued using statins. Another study showed that ideal low density lipoprotein levels (LDL-C) as low as 55 mg/dl are not harmful, and actually give better protection than the currently recommended level of 70 mg/dL. It is therefore highly recommended to maintain statin therapy after the CABG procedure inpatients who have no adverse reactions to the mand to adjust the level to achieve an LDL-C level of 55mg/dL, rather than the current ideal level of 70 mg/dL Summarizing all the data and recommendations, the emphasis will be on prevention: more and earlier testing, recognition of Lipoprotein (a) as a risk-enhancing biomarker that should be tested at least once in adulthood, earlier lipid screening, and expanded use of coronary artery calcium scoring. Heredity still remains as a non-controllable factor, as predisposition to cardiovascular disease exists in some individuals. Lifestyle changes are generally not effective, but avoiding saturated fat is highly recommended for everyone. He also discussed atherosclerosis and its treatments, informing that it is an inflammatory disease. We were indeed privileged to be provided with all of these updates. Dr. Shaver also described the serious difficulties he had post-surgery, and how, with the support of his wife and the nurses and staff, he was able to recover. He answered many questions from the audience, both in person and via Zoom.
Bill remarked that, in the military, there is a tradition of showing honor and respect to seniors, and he thereby saluted Dr. Shaver as retired Captain of the U.S. Navy Reserve.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:15 PM, followed by informal social gathering, along with refreshments.
Respectfully submitted: Faye Chow, Secretary
MEETING MINUTES: JUNE 11, 2026
The twenty-ninth in a series of meetings starting October, 2022, held in partnership with the Community Education Department at Eisenhower Health (EH), was conducted in-person at the Annenberg Health Sciences Building and via Zoom by Brett Klein, EH staff, on June 11, 2026.
Attendees: 30 in-person; 15 via Zoom. President Bill Stark opened the meeting at 6:00 PM and welcomed all attendees, with special acknowledgment to those attending for the first time and to Brett Klein for managing the Zoom connection. Bill gave a summary of the organization of Mended Hearts, along with a description of the services of accredited visitors who visit cardiac patients in both EH and Desert Regional Hospital. He also mentioned the chapter’s recent scholarship awards of $1000 each to 15 cardiac nurses who are employed at EH or Desert Regional hospital. Today’s topic on the cardiac rehab and nutrition programs at EH is being presented by two nurses: Cynthia Clark and Samantha Schoneman, both employed at the Renker Wellness Center at EH.
INTENSIVE CARDIAC REHAB
Ms. Cynthia Clark, MS, EP, is an Exercise Physiologist and Balance and Mobility Specialist, with a master’s degree in kinesiology and four years of experience in cardiac rehab. She described the program of Intensive Cardiac Rehab (ICR) as “a medically supervised rehab program for heart patients, focusing on lifestyle modifications through incorporating exercise, nutrition and other factors”. The “intensive” version of cardiac rehab offers 36 visits including 72 sessions (1 hour of exercise + 30 – 60 minutes of education per session), while the traditional Cardiac Rehab offers 36 sessions consisting of 1 hour of either exercise or education. Both versions are covered by insurance. After referral by a cardiologist, a patient is evaluated by a registered nurse who considers the diagnosis, medications and current lifestyle of the patient, plus a 6-minute walk test; goals are set to formulate the appropriate program. It consists of 2-3 visits a week for 12-14 weeks, with assessment of progress throughout the program and at the end. The entire program is based on the Pritikin Three Pillars of “Regular Exercise, Heart-Healthy-Nutrition and Healthy Mind-Set”, and is conducted by a multidisciplinary care team. Proven results of participating in the program are: reduction in mortality rates, slowing the progression of coronary artery disease, improving mental health, reduction in anxiety and depression, reductions in blood pressure, cholesterol and weight, and education in all the practices that the patient can continue at home to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Miss Clark also provided information regarding the differences between exercise and physical activity, i.e.: Physical Activity is any type of movement, whereas Exercise is a type of physical activity that is “planned, structured, and repetitive with the intention of improving one or more components of physical activity”. Examples of physical activity are: walking the dog, physical movements for work, and golf. Exercise examples are: walking, running, bike riding, zumba, bodyweights, bands, stretching and yoga. The facility is located in the Renker Wellness Center at EH, and also serves as a “Community Gym” for hospital volunteers, current medical program graduates, and previous community gym members active in January, 2023. There is a membership fee of $40/month.
Samantha Schoneman, MPH, RDN, is a Clinical Dietitian at the Renker Wellness Center. She has a B.S. degree in Nutrition and Food Science and Master’s in Public Health. Her experience in a senior living facility exposed her to the prevalence of heart disease, which she stated is the #1 cause of death in the US since 1921. Although there are genetic causes, lifestyle also plays a great role as well. Smoking, physical inactivity, obesity, high cholesterol and high blood pressure are factors that contribute to heart disease and can be controlled. She instructs patients enrolled in ICR with the nutrients that are important and how to avoid those that can lead to overweight and other harmful conditions. The ideal sources for protein, complex carbohydrates, fats, and fiber are all recommended in order to help stabilize blood sugar levels, regulation of hormone production, reduce inflammation, decrease colon cancer risk, provide energy, and even possibly help protect the brain and reduce the risk for dementia. She summarized the ideal balanced diet as one that (1) contains more plant-based meals using beans and lentils; (2) includes fruit at meals and snacks; (3) increased vegetable intake (fresh, frozen, low sodium canned); (4) decreased added sugars and sodium. Her recommendation for alcoholic beverages is to avoid them completely.
Both Miss Clark and Miss Schoneman answered numerous questions from the audience. To summarize a few: There is no agreement that lectins in food are harmful, especially when consumed in moderate amounts; Depression and anxiety are addressed in the program when necessary by the nurses who are trained, and also in classes on the Healthy Mindset; Seed oils : Avoid hydrogenated oils; try plant-based butter. The meeting is being recorded and will be available on the Eisenhower listing on YouTube within several weeks.
For protein, the recommended sources are from lean meat (especially chicken), egg whites, fish, nonfat Greek yogurt and low fat cottage cheese. One should also consume more plant protein from beans, lentils, tofu, edamame, nuts and seeds, as they also provide more fiber as well. Whole grains and complex carbohydrates such as brown rice, oatmeal, whole wheat, and quinoa help to stabilize blood sugar levels, and are more satisfying than refined grains. Fats are necessary for regulating hormone production, providing energy, and absorption of vitamins A, D, E, and K, and other important functions. Foods high in saturated fats (meat, poultry, butter, cheese, chocolate, fried foods, et al) can increase cardiovascular disease risk and may cause inflammation. Unsaturated fats are found in plant sources (walnuts, chia seeds, olive oil, avocado oil, nuts, seeds, and avocado) and are heart healthy. Some studies show that they help protect the brain and reduce risk for dementia,, as well as helping with blood sugar regulation, and can be anti-inflammatory.
***VISITING CHAIR – BILL STARK
URGENT NOTICE – VISITORS NEEDED!!!
We have an immediate need for additional visitors at Desert Regional Medical Center and Eisenhower Health.
Our visiting program is a vital part of supporting heart patients and their families, and your time can truly make a difference.
If you are a heart patient or would like more information, please contact Bill Stark as soon as possible. Thank you for your continued dedication and support.
***MEMBERSHIP CHAIRMAN – DICK FREIMAN
Hello members, welcome to another summer in Coachella Valley, the good news is less traffic with Snowbirds migrating and great deals at restaurants.
I’m pleased to announce that our Chapter now has over 100 members and is growing, thank you for all your support. Please review your membership status and renew, if necessary, National sends out reminders to every member, if you are not sure please contact me to confirm your renewal date. To submit your national dues, go to www.mendedhearts.org, click on join button and follow instructions. When you choose one of the paid levels which are indicated on the form, our Coachella Chapter #281 receives a 25% share of National.
Please consider making an additional donation to our chapter. We have operational expenses (office supplies, etc.) and depend on your donations to provide scholarships for our cardiac nurses at Eisenhower Health and Desert Regional. Many Scholarships have been awarded throughout the years by our chapter. Please make checks payable to Coachella Valley Chapter of Mended Hearts #281.
Donations will be deposited by our chapter Treasurer, Liz Young, 78310 Willowrich Dr. Palm Desert, CA. 92211.
As noted, we are hosting summer lunch gatherings, please join us for some fun times and if you are a first timer, please introduce yourself to me.
Any questions regarding membership dues please call or e-mail me.
Dick Freiman.
(760) 501-5096
dickfreiman@gmail.com
Prior to our meetings, we have a phone committee who contacts our members to remind them of the date and time. I’m so appreciative that Margaret Manson and Sandy Sladen have joined the calling group which is now five in total. Also, if you have any questions regarding membership dues, please call or e-mail me. Dick Freiman (760) 501-5096 / dickfreiman@gmail.com
BOARD MEMBERS
PRESIDENT
BILL STARK
760-777-3062
bstarkdest@verizon.net
CARL RUSHING
VICE PRESIDENT/PROGRAMS
404-610-8922
carl.w.rushing@gmail.com
SECRETARY
FAYE CHOW
760-341-5706
jaimeandfaye@verizon.net
TREASURER
LIZ YOUNG
760-409-8181
iblizy3@aol.com
MEMBERSHIP CHAIRMAN
DICK FREIMAN
760-501-5096
dickfreiman@gmail.com
VISITING CHAIRMAN
BILL STARK
760-777-3062
bstarkdest@verizon.net
EMAIL COORDINATOR
DAVID DIBLEY
650-452-8844
dibleyda@hotmail.com
FUND RAISING
DAN & INGRID TWOHEY
925-348-3295
510-703-5495
twohey1@hotmail.com
NEWSLETTER EDITOR
CAROLE STARK
760-772-1461
bstarkdest@verizon.net