American Heart Month Reminds Us to Be Heart Healthy

Tomorrow (2/1/12) is the first day of American Heart Month. It reminds me of the importance of staying heart healthy, especially since heart conditions have been so close to home for us at the Richland County Sheriff's Department. 

On December 14, 2007 we lost Deputy Darral Lane who died of a heart attack while serving our community. Lane had a heart condition, which he was not aware-- and it was not identified during his regular physical exam. In memory and honor of Deputy Lane we conducted a free cardiac check for all Richland County Sheriff’s Department employees in November 2011. Out of approximately 800 personnel 127 took advantage of this opportunity. Of those 127 who were tested, 8 people were referred for further tests based on abnormalities in their tests.

One of those 8 is Deputy Arielle Riposta. It was identified that she has Aortic Valve Stenosis, otherwise referred to as a leaky valve. "I had no plans to participate in the screening because I couldn't find the time in my work schedule that day," says Deputy Riposta. "But when there was a lull in the appointments, I decided to sign-up. I'm glad I did, because they found something was wrong."

This was a voluntary opportunity for everyone to make sure their heart was ok. I am adamant that everyone in the Department is cared for and healthy. The heart screenings are one of the many services we provide to all employees that may just save a life.  

"I was lucky to find out about my condition. My cardiologist has spoken to me about what I can do on a daily basis to keep my heart as healthy as it can be. I realize now that everyone needs to find time - no matter how packed your schedule might be... just 15 minutes could save your life," says Deputy Riposta.

The 2011 Darral Lane Memorial Heart Exam was possible because of the generosity of the professionals at St. Jude Medical, the South Carolina Heart Center and the American Heart Association.

I remind everyone that you cannot take chances with your health and safety; have your heart screened is a small time investment that might offer you information about your health and wellness that you were not previously aware of. Typical screenings include risk factor assessment, blood pressure, 12 lead EKG, carotid & cardiac echoes, and a consultation with a cardiologist. 

Health and wellness are paramount toward having the most professional law enforcement agency in the State. Likewise, it is extremely important for all citizens to get yearly physicals, heart screenings and to live healthy lifestyles.   

The Richland County Sheriff’s Department will co-sponsor a Spaghetti Dinner (a fresh salad, garlic bread and iced tea) on Saturday, March 3, 2012 at

6708 Two Notch Road, Dentsville Baptist Church (Fellowship Hall) from 11am to 2pm. All proceeds benefit the American Heart Association. Tickets are on sale for $6.00 and can be purchased at the Richland County Sheriff’s Department Headquarters located at 5623 Two Notch Road

or the Richland County Sheriff’s Department Region Two Substation located at 7201 Two Notch Roadinside of Columbia Place Mall. For additional information contact Captain Cole Porter, Richland County Sheriff’s Department at (803) 576-3441.