Galion Community Hospital cardiac rehab unit gets an upgrade thanks to golf tournament (USA)

Cardiac patients at Galion Community Hospital, Ohio, are keeping their hearts healthy with new aerobic equipment, thanks to the annual Walt Chambers Memorial Golf Outing. The $8,200 raised in 2009 purchased a rowing machine, two Schwinn Airdyne bicycles and one elliptical trainer in the Cardiac Rehab Department. "We have been supporting this unit for the last three years," hospital board member Linda Chambers said. Chambers, 69, was married to tourney namesake Walt Chambers, who suffered from multiple heart problems until his death in 2006 at age 70. In 2008, his family and friends started a golf event in his memory to benefit the department, where he was a patient for six years. The first year raised $12,000 that bought two new pieces of equipment. "The staff was wonderful to him," said Linda Chambers, who lives in Galion. "We felt we needed to bring some attention to this unit. Our kids and friends felt it would be good. Walt loved playing golf." Sponsors for the event at Galion Country Club include Aramark and Craig Smith Auto Group, which is donating a car for the hole-in-one prize. The Cardiac Rehab Department sees at least 65 patients, each three times a week. Because of the generosity of the community and the fundraiser's success, the department is moving to a larger space with windows and easier access for patients. "We're really looking forward to the move," said Cynthia Roesch, a nurse who has worked in the department for 10 years. "We hope to raise enough money this year to get a new weight machine." For details or to register for the July 22 event, call Linda Chambers at 419-468-4144 or the hospital's marketing manager, Linda Hearn, at 419-468-0567