Ashley Holland’s Cardiac Rehab Success Story at Daviess Community Hospital

If you’ve been searching for ways to rebuild your strength and confidence after a heart-related event, take inspiration from Ashley Holland, NP-C—a hospitalist at Daviess Community Hospital (DCH) who found renewed health through our Cardiac Rehabilitation program.

Ashley underwent open-heart surgery on Dec. 2, 2024, to repair an ascending thoracic aortic aneurysm. As a nurse practitioner, she was used to caring for others, but the transition to patient status felt overwhelming. Like many patients, Ashley worried she wasn’t ready for the physical demands of Cardiac Rehab.

“I felt weak and short of breath. I was unsure if I could exercise for 10 minutes,” Ashley says. “But after just one week in Cardiac Rehab, I could do a full hour of cardio. It was the best decision I made to accelerate my recovery.”

Tailored Exercise and Emotional Support

Ashley credits the DCH Cardiac Rehab team—led by Connie Wilson, MSN, RN, CCRP, CCEP—for its personalized approach. The program meets patients where they are, gradually increasing exercise time and intensity as participants grow stronger. Emotional support is also key: Ashley says the uplifting environment and chance to connect with fellow patients helped prevent depression and kept her motivated.

“Everyone is so friendly, and the environment is very positive,” Ashley says. “I would have gone seven days a week if I could!”

The Power of Convenience

A major factor in Ashley’s success was the proximity of DCH’s rehab facility to her home—just 10 minutes away. This convenient access allowed her to maintain a consistent schedule without long commutes. In her early recovery weeks, the reduced travel time helped her manage fatigue, weakness and pain.

Back to Work in Five Weeks

Remarkably, Ashley returned to her role as a hospitalist just five weeks after surgery. She notes that Cardiac Rehab not only improved her physical strength, but also her mental well-being and daily stamina.

“I discovered early on that if I came to rehab or walked at home, I coughed less throughout the day,” she says. “That alone was motivation enough to keep coming routinely.”

Advice for New Patients

Now seven weeks post-op, Ashley wants others to know that starting Cardiac Rehab as soon as possible can make all the difference.

“Even if you feel like you can’t do it, start small and be consistent. Get movement in every day and talk to people. Physical and mental health are both equally important for recovery.”

Ready to Begin Your Journey?
If you or a loved one has experienced a recent cardiac event or surgery, Daviess Community Hospital’s Cardiac Rehabilitation program can help you regain confidence and control. Learn more by calling (812) 254-8895 or visiting our Cardiac Rehab page at dchosp.org/our-services/cardiopulmonary/.