At just 28 years old, Katelyn Cristaldi is no stranger to heart surgery. Born with congenital heart disease (CHD)—a group of heart defects present at birth that affect the heart’s structure and blood flow—she underwent her first heart surgery at 3 months old and a second one at the age of 9. Years later, when she required another cardiac procedure in New York, she approached it with the resilience of someone who has learned to navigate life with a complex heart condition.
Following her most recent surgery, she knew cardiac rehabilitation would be essential to her recovery. Cardiac rehab is a medically supervised program designed to improve your cardiovascular health if you have experienced a heart attack, heart failure, angioplasty or heart surgery. She also knew she wanted a program close to home, where she could focus on healing both physically and emotionally. Her husband suggested she explore Holy Name after recalling that a high school friend worked there. That recommendation proved to be life-changing.
Katelyn began cardiac rehabilitation at Holy Name in mid-November and completed the program at the end of January. From the start, she describes the experience as phenomenal. The care team made her feel supported, encouraged, and truly seen. “The staff was so caring and genuinely dedicated to what they do,” she shared.
One person, in particular, left a lasting impact: Jackie Montgomery, her cardiac rehabilitation exercise physiologist. Jackie challenged Katelyn in ways she didn’t think were possible—pushing her to complete her exercises, build endurance, and go beyond what she ever imagined she could do. With Jackie’s guidance, Katelyn trained on the elliptical, rower, treadmill, stationary bike, and strength machines, steadily regaining confidence in her body’s abilities. She especially appreciated that Holy Name’s cardiac rehabilitation program included a three-month membership to HNH Fitness in Oradell, making it easier to maintain momentum.
Before surgery, shortness of breath was a constant part of Katelyn’s daily life. After completing cardiac rehab, that limitation is no longer holding her back. She feels stronger, more capable, and more energized than she has in years. The program also equipped her with tools for long-term success. Katelyn plans to continue using the exercises she learned as she works out independently at the gym in her apartment complex.
Beyond the physical improvements, the mental and emotional benefits have been just as meaningful. As a social worker living in Park Ridge, she manages demanding and emotionally complex caseloads. Feeling stronger, both physically and mentally, has helped her approach her work with renewed clarity, resilience, and confidence.
For someone who has lived her entire life with congenital heart disease, cardiac rehabilitation at Holy Name was more than a step in recovery; it was a powerful reminder of what Katelyn is capable of achieving, with the right support by her side.
