“My treatment was very nice at Humber,” says Rita, “but if the procedure could have been done right when I needed it, my experience would have been so much better.”

75-year-old Rita has been dealing with heart issues since 2004, when she had double bypass surgery and had a stent put in. Recently, Rita found herself back at Humber River Health’s Apotex Emergency Department, grappling with a recurrence of her heart problems. “I wasn’t feeling well, so my family doctor recommended I go to Humber,” says Rita. 

During her visit to the Apotex ED, Rita was seen by the head cardiologist, who determined that she required an angioplasty. However, since Humber lacks an on-site Cath Lab necessary for this procedure, Rita had to be transferred to another Hospital. 

A Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory, or Cath Lab, is a specialized facility where doctors perform procedures to diagnose and treat heart and blood vessel problems. These procedures are usually minimally invasive, using imaging techniques to guide tools through blood vessels to the heart. Unfortunately, without a Cath Lab, Humber’s Cardiology Program is unable to treat patients like Rita on site. 

The absence of a Cath Lab not only caused Rita physical discomfort but also emotional strain. “It’s scary because you’re vulnerable, and you don’t know what’s going to happen when you arrive at the Hospital,” says Rita. The emotional and physical toll of such an ordeal is something no patient should have to endure. 

After being transferred to another Hospital in the morning, Rita had to wait alone for her surgery late into the evening, without any family by her side. Her husband was unwell, and her relatives were busy with work and travel. “I was by myself,” says Rita. “My family couldn’t be with me due to their work schedules and my husband was unwell.” 

Being the last person to go in for surgery that day, Rita felt the weight of the long wait times. Moreover, as a diabetic, she couldn’t eat anything while waiting, adding to her physical discomfort. Rita ended up spending a total of four days in the hospital, three of those in recovery after being sent back to Humber. 

Reflecting on her experience, Rita believes having a Cath Lab at Humber would have made a significant difference. “It’s less time waiting, and it helps you feel better overall. You don’t want to put your heart under any stress or high emotions,” says Rita. “You feel safe.” 

While the support from Humber’s staff was commendable, the need for better resources is evident. “My treatment was very nice at Humber,” says Rita, “but if the procedure could have been done right when I needed it, my experience would have been so much better.” 

At Humber, everything we strive for is about improving patient care and safety for our community. A Cath Lab at Humber means less stress from transfers and long waits for our patients, something most community hospitals can already deliver on.

Rita’s story resonates deeply with our mission: we aim to provide the best possible care for our patients, and acquiring a Cath Lab is a significant step toward that goal. As Rita poignantly expressed, “We would all be very grateful.” 

*Photos for all patient profiles have been changed for the comfort of patients and their families.

Cardiac Cath Lab

Unfortunately, without a Cath Lab, Humber’s Cardiology Program is unable to treat patients on site forcing them to be transferred to another Hospital. A Cath Lab at Humber means less stress from transfers and long waits for our patients. Help us to bring essential cardiac services closer to home. For more information, please contact Caterina Margisano.