#WhyFrye - Joel McCombs

“Nobody expected me to live as long as I have.”

Joel McCombs, 71, has faced numerous health challenges but has always tried not to let them define his way of life. However, as he got older, managing day-to-day became more difficult. Luckily, in 2024, Frye Regional Medical Center introduced a minimally invasive heart procedure that would change his life for the better.

Joel has always tried to live a heart-healthy lifestyle. He walks daily with his dog, enjoys spending time outdoors and strives to live a peaceful life with his wife. He also enjoys repairing and renovating vintage cars in his spare time. Joel never takes life for granted.

In 1991, Joel faced his first major health scare after suffering a heart attack. He was rushed to the hospital by ambulance, stabilized and quickly referred to Dr. Richard Carlton, a cardiovascular surgeon at Frye Regional Medical Center. Dr. Carlton performed triple bypass surgery, which effectively saving Joel’s life.

Following the heart attack, Joel continued living as normally as possible – working, pursuing his hobbies and spending time with friends. “I never wanted my heart to stop me,” said Joel. “I didn’t want my heart issues to handicap me from living my life.”

Shortly after his recovery, Joel began a 19-year career with Frye Regional Medical Center’s Materials Management Department.

In 2017, while eating lunch in the hospital cafeteria, Joel once again experienced chest pains. He walked himself to the Emergency Department, where he was diagnosed with another heart issue. Cardiologist Dr. John Morrison recommended placing a stent but also noted intervention would be needed down the line.

Then in 2024, Frye Regional Medical Center introduced a new heart procedure: the transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). This innovative technique allows doctors to replace a damaged valve without the need for major surgery. Instead of making a large incision, doctors use a catheter–a thin tube–to reach the heart through a blood vessel, typically in the leg or chest. TAVR offers quicker recovery times and has shown positive outcomes.

On November 20, 2024, Dr. Brett Starr, a cardiothoracic surgeon at Frye Regional, performed the TAVR procedure on Joel. By 11 a.m. the next day, Joel was back at home, recovering.

Today, Joel walks with his dog, works on his collection of vintage cars and looks forward to celebrating his 49th marriage anniversary with his wife. Joel can live the life he wants without fear of his heart holding him back.

“Every day I am alive is a bonus,” said Joel. “I knew I was in good hands since I worked there for so long, but being able to live just another day is a gift.”

Joel’s recovery has been excellent. He continues to see Dr. Morrison and the TAVR team for regular follow-ups. “I love them,” said Joel. “I feel comfortable, I feel cared for, and I feel like I’m not just a patient but a part of the family. It’s not often that you find a set of doctors that don’t treat you like a number on a screen.”

After over three decades of heart scares and health issues, Joel finally found relief through an innovative procedure offered close to home at Frye Regional Medical Center, giving him the chance to enjoy life fully once again.

Frye Regional Medical Center is committed to ensuring that every patient receives quality care and comfort regardless of health concerns. To find a provider, visit MyFryeRegional.com, or call us at 828.315.3391.