What Patients Are Saying…

Hi Dr. Rellas, Let me give you a 25 year update on a grateful patient.  I am Joe W. but more importantly on July 27th '86 you were there for me at Trinity Medical and later at St. Paul with Dr. Geisler giving me chances I would not have otherwise had. I am still very grateful to you and your staff for giving me guidance to a road that would lead to much better health and the ability to live with heart disease.  Without your help I most likely would not be celebrating this 25th anniversary. I have diligently pursued a healthy lifestyle including most of the things you suggested as well as participation in the Dean Ornish Program for Reversing Heart Disease and good advice from some of the finest cardiologists as my career has taken me and my family to several states.  But without you the may not have been possible.  I think of you often and give thanks for that "by chance" meeting in the ER at Trinity in '86.. Mary and I are celebrating the anniversary of my heart attack on the 27th with a hike along the Pacific coast where we will certainly toast to you as being our real hero. Thanks Joe and Mary W.

Joe W.

Last Wednesday the world stopped for me and my family. My dad went in to see a new PCP for a new patient appointment and was diagnosed with a severe heart murmur along with other possible issues. The PCP referred him to a local cardiologist who did little or nothing for him but prescribe medication that he had no idea why or how to take. My mom called me in a panic state asking me to help my dad in any way that I could. The first physician that came to mind was Dr. Rellas. I came into work on Thursday in an almost comatose state and my colleague and friend Susie M. immediately contacted Jackie Allen (Practice Manager @ HeartFirst). It wasn’t 3 minutes later that Jackie called me offering a next day appointment. I booked an appointment for today at 11:00 because my parents live 130 miles away. We arrived at Heart First today very anxious and unsure of what would happen. Jackie Allen greeted us at the front door with a warm and caring smile that just put us in a more optimistic mood. At 11:10 my dad was roomed where vitals and an EKG were taken by the nicest MA. Very soon after, Carol Bjkorman came in with the same warm and caring smile and went right to work. She fully assessed my dad and reassured us that he would receive the best medical care. Carol was so thorough and patient and answered every question that we had. Dr. Rellas came through the door with a smile bigger than Dallas and went right to work on my dad. He confirmed all of Carol’s findings and began ordering multiple tests. My dad had a Nuclear Stress test, calcium score, EKG, enrolled/consulted with the coumadin nurse, and had an ultrasound all in a matter of 3 hours. In the midst of all the testing, Carol, Jackie and Nordy continued to check on my mom and I and even served us lunch. Dr. Rellas stayed around the office until all of my dad’s tests were completed to discuss the findings. He had the best bedside manner and explained everything in terms that we were all able to understand. Dr. Rellas was so compassionate; he put my dad on different meds that will allow him to have a better quality of life.

Jacque T.

Family Member

Dear Dr. Rellas, The reason for my note is to say thank you so much for accepting and caring for our 81-year old father. He thinks you are awesome, as does my sister. I have heard nothing but wonderful things about you from many years ago. My sister loved working for you and your wife. Our father is a stubborn ole’ doctor who never wants to bother anyone about his heart. We will be forever indebted to you. Thanks again for helping us with Dad. Sincerely,

Barb M.

Dear Heart First Staff, Thank you for providing me a great health care visit this past Monday, March 10th. Typically, none of us look forward to a doctor’s visit, particularly when it involves a “stress test.” My experience at Heart First was exceptional – from the beautiful offices to the entire staff – check in to check out – PA’s technicians – all were extremely professional and “patient friendly.” Congratulations on creating this wonderful, well-managed environment! Sincerely,

Janet B.

For whatever it’s worth, I would like to express my sentiments, and comments, as to my recent initial visit with Dr. Rellas, and follow-up testing by his staff. I was very impressed by the immaculate facilities and amenities. I found the entire staff I encountered to be very pleasant, competent, professional and compatible as they exercised and preformed their necessary tasks very efficiently and skillfully. Their demeanor left me feeling comfortable and with little time wasted sitting idle. My apologies for not recalling all those involved; to name some, Linda and her competent helper, Heather, an intern Richard, but from the front desk until I left, I was very appreciative of their professionalism, competence and compassion for my health issues. In the past several years I have had many major health issues, addressed at various locations, but not as equivalent. Respectfully,

Ray D.

As a recent patient, I wanted to congratulate your office on the great performance of its staff. In the past, when sent for a procedure on a referral from my primary care physician, I have been exposed to grumpy unwelcoming people. So when I arrived at your office I was anticipating a long wait and less than a pleasant experience. But, from the moment I arrived until I left your office, I was assisted by smiling and friendly people who made me feel welcome and acted concerned about me as a person while the procedure I was there for was performed efficiently and professionally. I give credit to your staff as well as the management of the office for their part in creating this great customer service atmosphere. I may have to give credit to the building you work in as well as I had a second great experience this week in another office in your building. Anyway a job well done! Thank you,

Marc J.