Karing for you, one heart at a time.

Mission Trip to Bolivia

Help us Kare for Hearts in Bolivia!

Paz Echad

Paz Echad a 501(c)3 charity is partnering with Karing Hearts Cardiology and the pacemaker industry to help make a difference for those who are experiencing life-threatening cardiac conditions in Bolivia, South America. Given their limited access to pacemakers Karing Hearts Cardiology has partnered with Paz Echad to be begin to make a difference and Kare for those around the world. To read more about this cause, visit pazechad.org. Please consider partnering with us financially to help us Kare for others. Our fundraiser goal is $50,000.

Why Are We Going?

Dr. Schoondyke and Julie Bentley NP will be traveling back to Bolivia in the middle of June 2023 with Paz Echad, a foundation started by Ives Orozco, to Kare for patients with life threatening cardiac conditions, in Bolivia, South America. He has assembled a team of individuals to travel to Bolivia and we are asking for good financial support. Please consider a donation to help us help others around the world. 

In April 2011, I had the opportunity to open my own practice, Karing Hearts Cardiology. My experience while in the hospital with Kari shaped the direction I was to follow. I wanted to treat patients in a Karing and compassionate way, dedicating my future practice to the memory of my daughter. At the time, it seemed only appropriate to choose the name, Karing Hearts Cardiology – something that to this day has offered our practice a unique perspective on the delivery of healthcare.

– Dr. Jeff Schoondyke

What Paz Echad and Karing Hearts Cardiology do?

By partnering with each other and the pacemaker industry, Dr. Schoondyke will be implanting life-saving pacemakers in patients who otherwise would not be able to afford them. We are providing the service and devices completely free of charge.

How Can You Help?

Help Paz Echad and Karing Hearts Cardiology Kare for patients in Bolivia by donating today. All proceeds will help benefit the mission as we help others around the world. You can donate online at pazechad.org. Help us make a difference in the Bolivian community. Donations are also being accepted at Karing Hearts Cardiology.

Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE)

A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is an invasive heart procedure where an ultrasound probe is inserted into your esophagus (food pipe). A transesophageal echocardiogram allows your cardiologist to acquire detailed pictures pertaining to the structure, function and any valvular heart disease that many be present. This procedure demonstrates your cardiac function in much greater detail than a standard transthoracic echocardiogram.

Prior to your procedure, you should not have any food or drink for 8-12 hours. In most cases, you will be able to take your home medications as scheduled. Your cardiologist / healthcare provider will advise you if there are any requirements to alter your medication schedule. Prior to your transesophageal echocardiogram, the technologist will insert an IV in your arm as a safety precaution to begin the test. This will allow sedation to be given to make you more comfortable during your procedure. During your procedure, you will be required to lie flat for approximately 30 minutes while the test is being completed. After your transesophageal echocardiogram, you will need to refrain from driving for approximately 12 hours and will need someone to accompany you home after the procedure. You can return to your normal activities the morning after your procedure.