Voices That Inspire: From Don’s Journey to Our Upcoming Quarterly Meetings
- Sherri White
- Sep 2
- 3 min read
Do You Remember Don?
On August 27, Eddie Fonnor, Executive Director of VCSQI, sat down over coffee with long-time supporter and patient advocate Don Pruett. If the name sounds familiar, it should — Don has already made a lasting impression on our community.
Back in December 2024, Don participated in the VCSQI Patient Panel Discussion, sharing his story of resilience as a cardiac patient. His perspective offered a raw and honest view into what it means to navigate care and recovery, reminding us why patient voices are essential in driving quality improvement.
Since then, Don has continued balancing the demands of work and family life with raising teenage daughters, while also finding space for personal growth. From tackling his first mountain bike trail to exploring the possibility of delivering a TED Talk, Don’s journey reflects the same spirit of resilience and curiosity that made his panel participation so impactful.
He also shares more of his reflections and advocacy through his blog, Inspired Heart, New Beginnings, where he writes about recovery, resilience, and the lessons learned along the way.
Looking Ahead: Winter Quarterly Meeting Patient Panel
Building on the success of Don’s session, the Patient Panel will return at the Winter Quarterly Meeting with two new voices and their families:
Frank Smith, husband of Judy Smith, RN, CV Outcomes Specialist at UVA. Frank will share his journey as a cardiac patient, while Judy brings her unique perspective as both a healthcare professional and supportive spouse.
Tim Johnson, husband of Melanie B. Johnson, MSN, RN-BC, Clinical Coordinator for HeartNet of the Virginias at Carilion Clinic’s Cardiovascular Institute. He will share his story as a patient, with Melanie adding her insights as a nurse leader and caregiver.
Together, these stories will highlight the critical intersection of lived patient experience and clinical expertise, deepening our understanding of what meaningful cardiac care looks like.
Join Us In-Person: Fall Quarterly Meeting
Before we get to winter, there’s an important stop on our journey: the VCSQI Fall Quarterly Meeting, happening Thursday, October 9, 2025, from 5:30–7:30 PM at Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens.
This event will feature thought-provoking sessions designed to spark collaboration and innovation in cardiac care:
Welcome & Highlights from the Board – Dr. Robert Lacey, MD (Sentara/Norfolk)
Cost and Quality Data Review – Eddie Fonnor, Executive Director, VCSQI
VHAC Updates – Dr. Peter O’Brien, MD (Centra Lynchburg)
Improving Efficiency in Performing TAVR Procedures – Dr. Mohamed Quadry, MD (Virginia Commonwealth University)
Implementation of Patient Blood Management Programs: Challenges & Innovations – Dr. Karen E. Singh, MD, FASE (University of Virginia)
Why Attend In-Person?
While a Zoom option will be available, the real value comes from joining us in person:
Build meaningful connections with peers and leaders across Virginia.
Engage fully in live discussions and Q&A.
Strengthen relationships that carry forward into collaborative projects.
📍 Location: Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens
📅 Date: Thursday, October 9, 2025
⏰ Time: 5:30–7:30 PM
Show Your VCSQI Pride
This year, we’re also excited to roll out the VCSQI Swag Store — offering sweatshirts, hats, and jackets featuring the VCSQI logo. Whether at the hospital, in your community, or at future meetings, our branded gear lets you wear your commitment proudly. Every purchase helps spread awareness and demonstrates that you are part of a statewide movement advancing heart care.
Why It All Matters
From Don’s reflections to the upcoming Patient Panel, and from dynamic Fall sessions to new ways of showing your pride through our swag store, one message is clear: the strength of VCSQI lies in its people.
By coming together — in person — we not only share knowledge and data but also amplify the voices and experiences that shape the future of cardiac care across Virginia.
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