Moments Matter

We want you to be around to make many more.

Confidence in your heart care provider is important, and at SGMC Health, we believe you deserve the best care available—in prevention, treatment, and long-term care; at home, and at the hospital. 

In just a few short years, we’ve drastically raised the level of healthcare available becoming South Georgia's most comprehensive program, offering open heart surgery, a structural valve center, and cardiac electrophysiology services. 

Recent Heart News

SGMC Health Enhances Heart Care with New Cardiac Electrophysiology Lab and Cath Lab Upgrades

SGMC Health is raising the bar in cardiac care with the introduction of a cutting-edge Cardiac Electrophysiology (EP) Lab at its main campus. This significant milestone is part of an […]

SGMC Health Performs its First Alternative Access Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)

SGMC Health recently achieved the successful completion of its first transcarotid access Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR). This alternative access procedure provides a critical, less invasive option for patients who cannot undergo […]

SGMC Health Expands Physician Network and Specialty Services in Professional Building

SGMC Health recently celebrated the completion of a 11,500 sq. ft. medical office buildout at its main campus. This includes the opening of two new clinic locations, SGMC Vascular Surgery […]

SGMC Health Celebrates 100th TAVR Milestone

SGMC Health recently celebrated the completion of its 100th Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) procedure, a major milestone in its mission to provide advanced cardiovascular care to the region. […]

SGMC Health Offers New Procedure to Treat AFIB

SGMC Health is proud to announce a significant milestone in cardiac care, with Kamil Hanna, MD, a renowned cardiac electrophysiologist, successfully performing the first Farapulse™ Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA) procedure […]

According to the American Heart Association, here are things you can do to lower your risk of heart disease.
  • Treat high blood pressure.
  • Don’t smoke, and avoid secondhand smoke.
  • Eat a heart-healthy diet that’s low in saturated and trans fats, sodium (salt), and added sugars.
  • Get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity a week – an average of just 21 minutes a day.
  • Reach and maintain a healthy weight.
  • Control your blood sugar if you have diabetes.
  • See your doctor for regular check-ups.
  • Take your medicines exactly as prescribed.

The best way to prevent potential heart issues is to learn the risk factors and know where you stand. 

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Patient Stories

Real stories from our doctors and patients of how our team cares for you and your heart.

Betty Dianne Clenney

Betty Dianne Clenney

At 77 years old, Betty Dianne Clenney from Colquitt, GA, faced her second battle with atrial fibrillation (AFib), a condition that once hindered her quality of life.

Her journey with Afib began back in 2017, when she started experiencing troubling symptoms—irregular and fast heart rates that disrupted her daily activities. Feeling overwhelmed and desperate for relief, Betty sought out Kamil Hanna, MD, a cardiac electrophysiologist.

His thorough approach and compassionate care left a lasting impression, setting the stage for a life-changing relationship. 

In 2018, Dr. Hanna recommended a cryoablation, a minimally invasive procedure that uses extreme cold to treat irregular heartbeats, also known as arrhythmias. Cryoablations are known to be more effective than medications in the long-term.

Betty fondly remembers having "an incredibly easy recovery" from this procedure. She experienced immediate relief that allowed her to regain her joy. "He gave me my life back," she says.

Life, however, threw another curveball in the summer of 2024 when Betty's AFib symptoms returned. Determined to find a solution, she revisited Dr. Hanna in September 2024 at SGMC Health in Valdosta, a two-hour drive away.

He suggested a new, advanced procedure: the Farapulse™ Pulsed Field Ablation. This cutting-edge technology is a revolutionary approach to cardiac ablation, utilizing pulsed electric fields to precisely target and eliminate abnormal heart tissue responsible for irregular heart rhythms. Its electrical pulse disrupts the arrhythmia while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue, which makes it a safer and more effective treatment option for AFib patients.

Trusting his expertise, Betty agreed to the procedure, which she underwent in January 2025. 

This time, the recovery proved more challenging. "It’s taken me a little longer to bounce back," she admits, reflecting on the complexity of the procedure. Dr. Hanna ended up performing not just one, but three ablations, made possible by the latest technology.

Despite the tougher recovery, Betty remains undeterred. "I have total confidence in Dr. Hanna," she says. 

Betty’s decision to follow Dr. Hanna to SGMC Health was an easy one, despite the 100+ mile distance she has to travel to see him.

"He changed my life. I had gotten to the point where I didn't really feel like doing anything. There was really no question that I would go wherever he was. I believe that he truly cares about his patients and has their best interest at heart." 

Her journey is a testament to the importance of seeking expert care for heart conditions.

Betty encourages others experiencing AFib symptoms to seek help without hesitation. "If it's something that Dr. Hanna does, I would certainly recommend him."  

Atrial fibrillation affects millions of Americans and can significantly increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other complications.

With advancements in technology, SGMC Health offers several effective options for those battling irregular heartbeats, giving new hope for long-term relief.  

Betty’s journey is a powerful testament to the advancements in heart care and the life-changing impact of a dedicated physician. This Heart Health Month, let her story inspire you to take charge of your heart health.

If AFib is affecting your life, trust the experts at SGMC Health to provide the innovative care you need for a brighter future. 
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Michael McGriff

When Michael McGriff lost a close friend to a massive heart attack, his world was shaken. His friend was 15 years younger than he was, and his sudden passing served as a stark reminder that heart disease doesn’t wait.

“It was an eye-opener for me,” Michael shared. That tragic moment became the turning point that pushed him to seek the medical care he had been putting off for far too long. 

Michael, a 58-year-old resident of Tifton, GA, visited his heart doctor in early 2024, where he underwent a series of tests to determine the health of his heart.

A CT coronary angiogram revealed coronary artery disease with significant blockages. He was quickly referred to Patrick Murrah, MD, a cardiothoracic surgeon at SGMC Health in Valdosta for further treatment.

“Choosing Dr. Murrah and SGMC Health was the best decision I ever made." 

In May 2024, Michael underwent a triple coronary artery bypass at SGMC Health. The procedure addressed three severely clogged arteries and marked the beginning of his heart health journey.

His initial recovery following surgery was challenging. However, he credits his family's hospital visits and the exceptional care he received from the team at SGMC Health for his healing. “Hats off to the staff and the whole heart center. I would recommend them for anyone needing heart surgery,” he said. 

Just two days after his surgery, Michael took his first steps in the hospital hallways. Though the walk was tough, he persevered, gradually gaining strength and confidence.

By day 4, he was walking without needing to stop and rest, and he was discharged the next day. At home, Michael leaned on his family, girlfriend, and the Veterans Affairs clinic for support, completing a two-and-a-half-month recovery with patience and determination. 

Dr. Murrah left a lasting impression on Michael with his compassion and commitment to his patients. “Dr. Murrah is an excellent physician. He even gave me his personal cell number and said if I have any problems, to call him,” he shared. 

Reflecting on his experience, Michael has an important message for men:

“We as men are sometimes afraid to seek medical treatment and drag our feet until it’s too late," he says. "Don’t hesitate. Go get yourself checked out. Get the tests done. It’s better to know than to sit around wondering.” 

Michael’s journey is a testament to the importance of listening to your body and seeking care when it’s needed.

This Heart Health Month, his story serves as a heartfelt reminder that taking action about your health can save your life.
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Hoyt Ledbetter

For Hoyt Ledbetter, an 84-year-old Valdosta resident, keeping an eye on his heart health has been a long journey.

About seven years ago, during a routine examination at the Veterans Affairs Clinic, doctors discovered a murmur. Under the care of Paul Murray, MD, Hoyt’s heart condition was carefully monitored until it was clear that it was time to take action.

He was referred to Luke Seibolt, MD, Interventional Cardiologist at SGMC Health to see if the Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) procedure was the right fit for him.

Before his operation, Hoyt underwent extensive testing to ensure the procedure would be safe. When the day came, the TAVR procedure went smoothly, and Hoyt noticed the results within weeks.

“I felt so much better and could breathe much easier.”

After starting cardiac rehab at SGMC Health, his breathing improved significantly, and he’s now looking forward to getting out more, spending time in the yard, and enjoying the sunshine.

Hoyt has trusted SGMC Health for years, having previously undergone cancer treatment at the Pearlman Cancer Center.

“Every experience I’ve had here has been great,” he said. “The staff is wonderful, and I wouldn’t go anywhere else.”

He also praises Dr. Seibolt for his exceptional care, saying, “We are so fortunate to have Dr. Seibolt here in Valdosta. He’s not only a good doctor but a good person as well.”

Hoyt encourages others not to ignore potential heart issues.

“If you suspect something is wrong, go get checked,” he urges. “It’s worth it to feel better and get back to enjoying life.”

This Heart Health Month, Hoyt’s story is a reminder of the exceptional care available at SGMC Health and the importance of prioritizing your heart health. 
David Smith (1)

David Smith

For David Smith, 54, of Hahira, Georgia, what seemed like minor discomfort turned out to be a life-threatening emergency.

For about a month, David had been experiencing on-and-off chest pain, which he dismissed as indigestion. But one evening, while attending his 10-year-old daughter's volleyball game, the pain intensified, spreading to his arm. He brushed it off again as being indigestion and got into his truck to drive his family home.
 
While driving, David began feeling lightheaded. He knew something wasn’t right, so he turned to his wife and asked her to take him to the emergency room. He pulled the truck over to switch seats with her so she could drive him and the moment he stepped out of the vehicle, he collapsed on the side of the road. 

Fortunately, a police officer drove by at that very moment and pulled over to help. Moments later, a firefighter who was also a parent of one of the players from the volleyball game recognized the familiar vehicle while driving home and quickly pulled over to help. Acting quickly, they placed David in the back of the patrol car and rushed him to the SGMC Health Main emergency room. 

Once at SGMC Health, he immediately received care and was found to have had suffered a massive heart attack—a double ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), also known as a “widowmaker.” His coronary artery was 99% blocked, and another artery was completely blocked.

David was immediately taken into surgery, where Interventional Cardiologist Edward Distler, DO, and the SGMC Health Heart Center team performed a heart catheterization and placed two stents, restoring blood flow and saving his life. 

Dr. Distler later told David that if he hadn’t arrived at the hospital when he did, he wouldn’t have survived. 

David’s hospital stay was only two nights, and he was able to get up and moving right away. Since his procedure, his blood pressure and cholesterol have improved significantly, and he is feeling better than ever. 

He credits SGMC Health’s Heart Center and Dr. Distler for their exceptional care.

"SGMC Health has an amazing heart center, and Dr. Distler is the best. He takes the time to answer every question and truly cares about his patients. I recommend him to everyone I know." 

Looking back, David realizes how easily he could have ignored the symptoms for even longer. Now, he encourages others to listen to their bodies. 

"If you feel anything off, don’t wait—go get checked out. It could save your life." 

Thanks to the fast action of first responders and the expert care at SGMC Health, David is back to enjoying life with his family—and watching his daughter’s volleyball games with a healthier heart. 

Top in the Region Nationally Recognized Cardiac Care

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Level 1 Emergency Cardiac Care Center

Only hospital in the region. Recognized in 2024.

Recognized at the highest level by the Georgia Department of Public Health (GDPH) for commitment to providing exceptional cardiac care and enhancing the health and well-being of the community.
GWTG Gold 2024

American Heart Association’s Gold Get With The Guidelines®-Resuscitation Quality Achievement Award

Only hospital in the region Maintained since 2014

Recognizes commitment to treating in-hospital cardiac arrest, ultimately helping to improve patient survival rates.

AACVPR Program Certification logo

American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Certification

Maintained since 2008

Recognizes commitment to improving the quality of life by continuing to enhance standards of care in cardiac rehabilitation.
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Intersocietal Accreditation Commission in Echocardiography in the area of Adult Transthoracic

Maintained since 2017

Recognizes intense compliance with the published standards thus demonstrating a commitment to quality patient care in echocardiography.
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American College of Cardiology’s NCDR Chest Pain ̶ MI Registry Gold Performance Achievement Award

Only hospital in the region and among only eight in Georgia

Recognizes commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of care for heart attack patients.
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