Health Center Marks 40 Years of Cardiac Rehab Services

By: Aprill Murphy

Albion, NE (May 14, 2025) – Boone County Health Center (BCHC) will host a week-long celebration June 9–13, 2025, to honor 40 years of Cardiac Rehabilitation Services. Events are scheduled for Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, with a special community gathering on Wednesday, June 11 from 1:00–2:30 PM at the BCHC South Entrance. A brief program will begin at 1:30 PM, and the public is warmly invited.

What began in 1985 with a single patient room, one bike, and a treadmill has grown into one of Nebraska’s most respected cardiac rehab programs. BCHC’s commitment to clinical excellence has earned both statewide and national recognition. The program was among the first in Nebraska to achieve national certification in 1999, and in 2019, it was named Nebraska’s Cardiac Rehab Program of the Year.

Over four decades, BCHC has built a robust cardiovascular service line. After launching Phase II rehab in 1985, the program expanded rapidly—adding a cardiology clinic, Phases I, III, and extended rehab, a wellness program, and a wide range of diagnostics and specialty services. Today, BCHC offers 27 cardiovascular-related services, all rooted in a legacy of patient-centered care.

BCHC also celebrates the professionals behind the program’s success. Gayla Oakley, who retired recently after 40 years, played a national leadership role in the field and helped shape the program locally.

Today’s team brings a combined 122 years of experience to BCHC. Led by Cardiac Rehab Director Angela Swantek, the team includes Melissia Nissen, Janet Feik, Abbie Nelson, Jaimie Beister, Jami Afrank, Colton Pelster, and Annette Horan, a recent addition with extensive Cardiac experience.

The June 11 event will feature cupcakes, drinks, door prizes, tours of the new cardiac rehab facility, and more. Commemorative t-shirts will be available for pickup (pre-order required by May 19 through Melissa at 402-395-3156). Shirts are $10 (S–XL) and $12 (2XL+), payable by cash or check (checks to BCHC). Mail orders can be sent to BCHC Cardiac Rehab, P.O. Box 151, Albion, NE 68620, including name and size. Pickup begins May 30.

BCHC invites patients, families, former staff, and the community to join in celebrating this milestone. Help us honor 40 years of heart health and the people who’ve made it possible.