Lahey Heart Surgery Patient Gains New Lease on Life

Cardiac Patient Feels Healthier Than Ever After Lahey Care

At just 48 years old, Jeremy Mastro was facing the stark reality of a second open heart procedure.

"It was probably the most stressful and emotional thing I could have ever envisioned for myself," he said. "You’re always fearing ‘the worst,’ and that is understandable." 

At the first meeting with his care team, Dr. Prem Shekar and his physician assistant Sarah Capano were not only extremely professional but also compassionate and understanding.

"Their humanity from the outset was beyond what I was expecting," Jeremy said. "They made me feel like I mattered and that they were going to get me through this."

Everything that was going to happen was articulated clearly and directly so that nothing was a surprise at any point, from pre-op testing to post-op recovery.

"Let me tell you," he said, "dealing with me and all of my questions and concerns could have been its own part-time job!"

After a quick recovery and early discharge, Jeremy is backing to living a full, active life and is the healthiest he has ever been. He works out at the gym seven days a week, plays golf three to four times a week – and walks the course every time – and has a new lease on life. 

"While I am glad it is all behind me," he said, "I think of Dr. Shekar and his team daily and am grateful for their care. I highly recommend anyone facing a cardiac procedure consider Dr. Shekar. He's simply the best and I literally owe him my life."