Florida Dad Back To Flipping Pancakes After 12 Hours Of Surgery

LARGO, FL — It was a typical day for 58-year-old Bob Hayduke, owner of an automotive service business in St. Petersburg, when a seemingly innocent headache quickly turned far more serious, leading his wife Bernadette to call 911 for help.

After arriving by ambulance to the emergency room at HCA Florida Largo Hospital, doctors diagnosed an aortic tear requiring immediate surgery. While in surgery, the medical team discovered another complication — coronary artery blockage requiring a bypass procedure.

After nearly 12 hours in surgery, Hayduke was provided post-operative cardiac and respiratory support, also known as ECMO. His medical team also diagnosed signs of stroke, which explained his inability to walk or use one of his hands.

Thanks to rehabilitation at HCA Florida Largo West Hospital, Hayduke is back to walking, regaining his strength, performing administrative duties at work and back to life with his family.

As for this Father’s Day, he’ll be enjoying his favorite pastimes — making pancakes for his wife and two children and driving his 1969 Camaro convertible.

At HCA Florida Healthcare, cardiologists specialize in cardiac rehabilitation; cardiopulmonary care; heart and vascular surgery; heart arrhythmia; heart disease including structural heart problems, blood clots and diseased arteries; heart failure and vascular disease.