From Ironman to Heart Health: Scott Arnone's Journey of Resilience and Recovery

In the world of triathlon, endurance athletes push their limits, swimming, biking, and running through challenges.

Scott Arnone, a dynamic triathlete from Clarkston, Washington, has spent decades training and competing in this prestisgious sport. With three Ironman competitions under his belt, Scott exemplifies determination and resilience, qualities that extend beyond his athletic abilities. 

Scott's story is about more than just the races he's conquered; it's about the hurdles that life has thrown his way and the unwavering spirit with which he faces them.

Growing up, Scott was aware of his family medical history shadowed by the untimely passing of his father at 55 from a heart attack and his mother's battle with cancer that ended at 64. These events instilled a powerful determination in Scott to gain control of his health where he could and to help extend his life to continue the adventures he loves.

In his professional life, Scott thrived as a financial advisor at Edward Jones for over 35 years, along with serving on the board of directors at Tri-State Hospital. His analytical mind and ability to strategize have served him well, not just in his finance career, but also in navigating personal health challenges. While Scott's life was largely defined by his athletic and professional achievements, a trip overseas sparked a new chapter in his journey.

Despite his regular intense workouts and swimming sessions totaling 2,500 yards, Scott found himself unusually fatigued, struggling to swim even 250 yards. An overseas EKG showed no cause for concern, but his fatigue persisted, prompting Scott to seek  additional testing once home.

Following his instincts, Scott was referred to a hosptial in North Idaho, where he learned he had a heart murmur and that it would redefine his approach to life.

The words, collapsed mitral valve with excessive regurgitation were daunting, but Scott saw them not as barriers, but challenges to overcome.

Refusing to opt for traditional open-heart surgery, Scott took charge of his treatment path and chose to have innovative robotic surgery enlisting the expertise of Dr. Matt Forester at Providence Spokane Cardiology.

Robotic-assisted heart surgery represents a significant leap in medical technology, offering patients like Scott a minimally invasive option that reduces recovery time, minimizes pain, and promotes faster healing compared to traditional open-heart surgery.

By day two post-surgery, Scott was pain-free and off pain medications, a testament to both his resilience and the hospital's exceptional care. An echocardiogram post-surgery confirmed no leakage—a victory in Scott's journey to control his health.

“One thing I noticed is that Providence must be doing something right with their people, because they have a culture of happiness. You can feel the culture,” Scott said. “From the attentive administration to the dedicated medical team, I was enveloped in an environment where my time was respected, and my comfort was prioritized.”

Scott’s story is a story of hope, determination, and gratitude. His experience at Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center highlights the  impact of caring health care professionals and the spirit of a person determined to push past life's finish lines.