In her late 40s, Robin Stein, now 63, and a lifelong Tennessean, found herself facing the daunting challenges of heart disease. Robin's health issues began with episodes of irregular heartbeats. "I can't count how many times I wore a heart monitor," she recalled. "Despite undergoing various tests, the root of the problem remained elusive." Eventually, Robin developed a worsening heart murmur. Upon her medical team's recommendation, she underwent an MRI, revealing she was living with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a disease in which the heart muscle becomes thickened, making it harder for the heart to pump blood. This disease had also claimed her mother's life and was considered hereditary. She was prescribed calcium channel blockers, which effectively controlled her heart rhythm for numerous years.
In 2021, Robin noticed a significant decline in her health. "I'd become breathless just from a simple walk or climbing stairs to get to our bedroom," she explained. "My quality of life was deteriorating rapidly." It was then that her cardiologist introduced her to CAMZYOS, a groundbreaking medication designed specifically to target the underlying causes of HCM, which had shown promising results but was relatively new to the market. He suggested she undergo specialized care tailored specifically to treat HCM. Uncertain about this unfamiliar treatment, Robin consulted various clinics and insurance providers for guidance. In her search, she discovered that Ascension Saint Thomas West Hospital had the care team she needed, just a three-hour drive from her home.
The Ascension Saint Thomas Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Program has been recognized as the first Center of Excellence by the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association in the region. Mark Zenker, MD, Director of the HCM Program, and Anna Rodonski PA-C, are experts in HCM and the management and treatment with CAMZYOS, the first FDA approved myosin inhibitor for the treatment of symptoms related to HCM with obstruction. "The medicine, CAMZYOS, the new drug that came out in 2022, specifically addresses the problem, not just the symptoms," she said. "I was initially hesitant," Robin confessed. "But after speaking with my care team, they quickly alleviated my fears. Their years of experience and confidence in the medication put me at ease, and I felt comfortable moving forward."
”Here at our practice, clinical research is at the heart of what we do, and the results we've witnessed are priceless. I have studied CAMZYOS since 2016 and other research trials which helped support CAMZYOS becoming FDA approved. By continuously being involved in new research, our team is able to provide high quality care. We want to offer our patients not just treatment, but the opportunity to live their lives to the fullest, just as Robin has,” Anna Rodonski, PA-C.
Robin could tell the difference within two weeks. With regular monitoring, she experienced a remarkable reversal of her symptoms, regaining her quality of life and newfound freedom. Now, she joyfully participates in her new grandbaby's life and resumes activities like walking her dog with ease.
"The care team at Ascension Saint Thomas has been absolutely phenomenal," Robin praised. "This entire experience feels nothing short of miraculous. I am deeply grateful and humbled by the availability of this medication and the proximity of the HCM clinic. It's truly been a blessing how everything fell into place."
