For more than four decades, Cary Hirsch, MD has helped shape cardiovascular care in the Hudson Valley. As one of the physicians who helped establish Good Samaritan Hospital’s Cardiac Catheterization Lab, he dedicated his career to bringing advanced heart care closer to home.Then, unexpectedly, he became the patient.When Dr. Hirsch experienced a serious cardiac event,Continue reading “The Cardiologist Who Helped Build the Cath Lab That Saved His Life”
Category Archives: Cardiovascular Care
Cold Weather, Warm Hearts: Protecting Your Heart in Winter
That first blast of winter air might feel invigorating, but your cardiovascular system is working harder than you realize. Within seconds of stepping into freezing temperatures, your blood vessels constrict to preserve body heat, raising your blood pressure and increasing the workload on your heart.
Small Changes That Make a Big Impact on Your Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, or hypertension, often develops without warning signs, but its effects on the heart, brain and kidneys can be serious over time. The good news is that even small, consistent lifestyle changes can lead to meaningful improvements.
A Musician’s Second Beat
John Berenzy experienced a life-altering cardiac event in August 2025 after returning home from New Orleans following the birth of his grandson, Sebastian. Mistaking severe chest pain for heartburn, John sought help from a neighbor, collapsing at their door. Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene. They administered nitroglycerin and treated a complete blockage inContinue reading “A Musician’s Second Beat”
A Heart Reimagined
Four years ago, Jennifer Dering was at the peak of her strength, a professional athlete, engineer, wife, and mother, training for a racquetball tournament when she suddenly began struggling to breathe. Over the course of 14 medical visits, she was misdiagnosed repeatedly. Doctors told her it was hormones, asthma, even “vocal cord dysfunction.” But JenniferContinue reading “A Heart Reimagined”
A Firefighter’s Second Chance
When Assistant Fire Chief John Lucariello of the Rombout Fire Company collapsed while responding to an early morning fire in Fishkill, NY, his fellow firefighters and paramedics rushed to his side. Despite repeated attempts to restart his heart, John was pronounced dead. Then, just minutes later, something extraordinary happened: his heart began to beat onContinue reading “A Firefighter’s Second Chance”
Listen to Your Heart: The Hidden Risks of Women’s Fall Routines
Fall routines can mask heart symptoms in women, like fatigue, shortness of breath or chest discomfort. Don’t ignore early signs. Prioritize check-ups and self-care. WMCHealth offers support and heart health guidance.
Timing is Everything: Study Links Later Menopause to Better Heart Health
A study in Circulation Research shows women who reach menopause at 55+ may have better heart health due to lasting vascular benefits. WMCHealth experts recommend monitoring key markers, healthy lifestyle habits, and personalized care to protect heart health.
Grill Masters’ Heart-Smart Summer: Barbecue Without the Bypass
You can enjoy a heart-healthy barbecue by making simple swaps, like lean meats, grilled veggies, lighter sides, and low-sugar drinks, without sacrificing flavor. For personalized heart health support, schedule a visit with a WMCHealth heart specialist today.
From Dad Bod to Rad Bod: Fitness After 40
As men age, staying fit requires a more balanced approach that includes strength training, cardio, flexibility, and rest to maintain muscle and overall health. WMCHealth’s primary care providers can help you create a safe, effective fitness plan tailored to your goals, schedule a visit to get started.