Back to the Water: Michael Henson’s Journey to Heart Health
5/1/2026
For Michael Henson, a 100% disabled veteran who spent nearly 40 years serving in the Navy and as a Merchant Marine captain, strength and resilience have always been part of life. But when unexpected health issues arose, he found himself navigating unfamiliar waters.
Michael initially brushed off his symptoms of chest pain and shortness of breath, assuming it was just heartburn. But when his breathing worsened, he knew something wasn’t right. He went to Santa Rosa Medical Center’s freestanding emergency room in Pace, where he was quickly evaluated and put at ease by the team.
“The people at Pace ER were very kind, and there was very little wait time,” Michael recalls. “They did a great job.”
It was there that Michael learned he had atrial fibrillation (AFib), something he hadn’t even known he was experiencing. He was referred to Santa Rosa Medical Center’s cardiology team and Dr. Le, an electrophysiologist, who performed a cardioversion to restore his heart rhythm. However, when it didn’t resolve the issue, Dr. Le quickly recommended a pacemaker.
“Dr. Le was aggressive in getting me treatment, and I appreciated his straightforward, tactful approach,” Michael says.
Like many patients, Michael had concerns going into the procedure. “I was afraid to get cut open,” he admits. But those fears quickly eased once he met the team in the cath lab.
“They explained everything in detail and had such a relaxed professionalism that I felt in good hands,” he says. “You kind of know when people know their business—and these people know it very well.”
Just two weeks after receiving his pacemaker, Michael is already feeling stronger than before.
“My recovery has been great. I immediately felt better, and now I’m walking about three miles a day,” he shares.
From Pace ER to the cath lab and ongoing care through SRMG’s interventional cardiology clinic, Michael describes his experience as nothing short of exceptional.
“It was excellent. I can’t say enough nice things about these folks. By far and away the best medical care I have ever had.”
Now, with his health back on course, Michael is looking forward to returning to one of his greatest passions: sailing. “I have a beautiful 35-foot Catalina,” he says with a smile. “I love sailing in Pensacola Bay.”
Thanks to the knowledgeable care he received, Michael is ready to get back to doing what he loves—stronger, healthier and with the wind at his back once again.
Ready to get back to what you love? Our interventional cardiology team can help you take the first step. Learn more at https://www.santarosamedicalgroup.com/interventional-cardiology.
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