An unexpected chapter: Gaining strength at Ascension Calumet

Bill Saenger, middle, pictured with his wife Jessie and the cardiac rehab team at Ascension Calumet

Throughout their 57-year marriage, Bill and Jessie Saenger have called many places home — from Kentucky and Tennessee to Colorado and California, before finally returning to Brillion, Wis. One place they never imagined becoming part of their story, though, was Ascension Calumet Hospital in Chilton.

In October 2024, Bill was hospitalized with heart failure, kidney failure and pulmonary edema. While being treated for a week at Ascension St. Elizabeth, staff approached him about enrolling at the new heart failure clinic at Ascension Calumet.

“While in the hospital they asked if I was interested in the program, and I said yes,” Bill said. “I always used to exercise, and now that I’m older, I needed to do this one.”

When Bill was well enough, he and Jessie went to Ascension Calumet to begin the road to his recovery. They first met with Jennifer Longsine, the program coordinator and registered nurse, for educational appointments before transitioning to phase two of cardiac rehab.

That connection, says Jessie, has meant the world to them.

“I can’t say enough good things about the team in Chilton. They are professional, they are compassionate and they know exactly what they’re doing,” she shared. “They’re all really fantastic and very interactive with the patients. It’s a really good group, and a lot of fun.”

Today, Bill is enrolled in the Health and Fitness program that is offered to patients once they complete phase two of cardiac rehab. He typically completes 20 minutes on the elliptical, 20 minutes on the treadmill and lifts weights at home.

“These programs are crucial for patients as they build up strength after a cardiac event,” Jennifer said. “We provide education and workouts to do at home, but many patients find the greatest benefit to be the connection they make with others while here.”

For Bill and Jessie, that sense of connection has been just as important as the physical progress he’s made. As they continue life back in Brillion, they are grateful for a program they never expected to need, and a care team that has changed their lives.