With the big game on the horizon, fans across the country are gearing up for a fun day of football. For Gerry Yonchiuk, head football coach at Central York School District, analyzing the X’s and O’s is always on his mind, but so too these days is his heart. Gerry’s managed heart issues through the years, but in April of last year, a sudden change in his heart health set him on a life-altering journey.
A Coach’s Instincts: Recognizing the Signs
At the time, Gerry, known for his strategic prowess on the field—leading his team to a district title and a state championship appearance in 2020—felt uneasy about his health. Years of managing heart issues had taught him to listen to his body, and when he noticed he was unusually out of breath, he didn’t hesitate.
“I thought maybe I just needed another heart catheterization,” Gerry recalls. “But something felt off, and I knew I couldn’t ignore it.”
On a Friday, Gerry reached out to his heart doctor at WellSpan. By Sunday, he was admitted to WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital in Lebanon for tests. The care team didn’t take any chances. Within hours, doctors determined he needed urgent surgery—a quadruple bypass that would take six to seven hours to complete.
Expert Care, Immediate Action
Gerry’s experience aligns with WellSpan’s commitment to rapid, evidence-based intervention for patients experiencing heart issues. WellSpan’s cardiac team’sexpertise and advanced technology enable them to diagnose and treat complex heart conditions swiftly, minimizing risk and improving outcomes.
“Our goal is to provide world-class care right here in our community,” says Dr. Martin LeBoutillier, cardiac surgeon at WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital. “For patients like Gerry, timely action and a personalized approach make all the difference.”
During surgery, Gerry’s family—his wife Wendi and three sisters—waited anxiously. They expected to rely on a monitor for updates but instead received personal visits from the care team throughout the procedure.
“They made us feel like the most important people in the world,” Gerry shares. “The personalized touch kept us grounded during a difficult moment.”
With a family history of heart disease—one of his sisters sharing similar heart issues, and his father, who died of congestive heart failure—Gerry is determined not to follow the same path.
Recovery and Rehabilitation: Back on His Feet
After six days in the ICU, Gerry was already on his way to recovery. He then underwent WellSpan’s cardiac rehabilitation program, recognized for its comprehensive support and medically supervised exercise, to help him regain his strength and confidence.
“Cardiac rehab is crucial for patients recovering from heart surgery,” explains Dr. Edward Tadajweski, cardiac interventionalist at WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital. “It’s not just about physical recovery—it’s about empowering patients to take control of their health and return to the activities they love.”
Later that year, Gerry was back on the sidelines, coaching his team and spending time with his family.
“I’m blessed,” he says. “I wish more men would take it seriously and get themselves checked out. Don’t wait—if something feels off, get it looked at.”
The Power of Teamwork—On and Off the Field
Gerry’s story is a testament to the power of teamwork, both in football and in healthcare. As a coach, he knows how to manage a team and make quick decisions. As a patient, he saw those same qualities in his care team.
“They know me. They know my body. I choose to drive an hour for my care in Lebanon, even though I could go anywhere else,” Gerry says.
He credits Jennifer Law, APP and coordinator of cardiac surgery at the hospital, for her integral role in his recovery. “Jennifer checked in on me day in and day out. She was always there, making sure I was comfortable and informed.”
WellSpan’s Commitment to Excellence
WellSpan’s heart & vascular team is internationally recognized and first to trial and use advanced technologies to deliver innovative, specialized care right here in our community. Just as in Gerry’s case, the team is known for its personalized care approach and dedication to positive patient outcomes.
Dr. LeBoutillier adds, “Our cardiac surgery team is committed to treating every patient like family. We combine surgical expertise with compassion, ensuring that each patient receives the highest level of care and support throughout their journey.”
Dr. Tadajweski echoes this sentiment: “Gerry’s recovery is a testament to what’s possible when patients and providers work together. At WellSpan, we’re proud to help our patients get back to what they love—whether it’s coaching football or spending time with family, or both!”
As the big game approaches and with February being American Heart Month, Gerry’s story serves as a powerful reminder: heart health can’t wait. Don’t ignore the signs.
Gerry’s advice to others is simple but profound: “Take care of your heart.”
Do you know where your heart stands? Complete our brief heart risk assessment and start a conversation with your doctor today.
