Philanthropy fuels our progress to transform healthcare

Celebrating 10 Years of Impact at the Claiborne and Jo Ann Bickham Cardiac Rehabilitation Education Center

When a loved one passes, there are many ways to recognize and celebrate the impact they made. For Jo Ann Bickham, the most meaningful way for her to honor her late husband, Clay, was to show generosity of spirit for others facing similar health challenges. The couple had formed deep connections with other patients at the UCHealth Cardiac and Vascular Center, creating a supportive community during Clay's treatments.  

This camaraderie inspired them to give back by establishing the Claiborne and Jo Ann Bickham Cardiac Rehabilitation Education Center. The center aims to help patients with heart conditions through both medical treatments and educational programs that promote healthier lifestyles. Jo Ann's passion for giving back is evident in her words: “They don’t have to give up,” she says, emphasizing the hope and resilience of patients who come to  UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital to get the heart help they need.  

Jo Ann's passion for cardiac rehabilitation stems from her extensive background in healthcare and her personal experiences with family members who faced heart issues. She served on the Patient Family Centered Care Advisory Council for 11 years and continued volunteering even after her term ended. “I had some affiliations and made donations and so forth quietly,” she explains.  

Reflecting on Clay's journey, Jo Ann remembers the solace they found with the cardiac rehab community. “That rehab was his salvation, and it was such a good group,” Jo Ann says, emphasizing the profound impact the program had on Clay's final years.  

Clay (pictured far left) with his cardiac rehab classmates

Friends and Food for the Soul 

As we celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the Claiborne and Jo Ann Bickham Cardiac Rehabilitation Education Center, it's inspiring to reflect on the journey that brought this vital facility to life. Jennifer Holder, MS, cardiac rehabilitation supervisor, shares her heartfelt memories and the profound impact of the Bickhams' generous donation.  

Originally from Minnesota, Jennifer's path led her to Colorado, where she found her calling at the UCHealth Cardiac and Vascular Center. Over the years, she formed a close bond with Clay and Jo Ann Bickham, who were deeply involved in the cardiac rehab community. Clay's long-term participation in the maintenance program and Jo Ann's frequent visits created a strong connection with Jennifer and the center. Their decision to donate was a surprise to Jennifer, but ‘paying it forward’ was always part of the plan for Jo Ann and Clay.  

They had an investment pool set aside for giving to the University of Colorado, but when Clay’s health began to deteriorate, they wanted to begin making an impact on other patients as soon as possible. “What if we take our money from research and do something to enhance cardiac rehab?” Clay asked Jo Ann. It was then that the Claiborne and Jo Ann Bickham Cardiac Rehabilitation Education Center was born.  

The Bickhams' gift allowed the creation of an education room, which has become a hub for cooking demonstrations, mindfulness meditation classes and social gatherings. Jennifer emphasizes the importance of this space, saying, “It gives us a lot of opportunity in terms of new ideas and innovation.” 

The center's kitchen, where healthy cooking demonstrations take place, and the education room, equipped for video conferencing, are just a few examples of how the Bickhams' vision has come to life. “Jennifer was trying to show everyone that even though you have cardiac issues, you can still have a long life if you live it properly,” Jo Ann says. 

Inside the Cardiac Kitchen facility at the UCHealth Cardiac and Vascular Center

Jo Ann also fondly remembers the personal touches that made the center special, such as the healthy recipes she shared with the rehab group. “I made a recipe with dark chocolate, fresh cranberries and walnuts,” she recalls. “Because dark chocolate is good for you!” To this day, the cranberry cluster recipe is a fan favorite for patients in the rehab community.  

The Bickhams’ vision and generosity have made this unique and supportive environment, creating a beacon of hope and healing for all who walk through its doors. Jennifer highlights the importance of the social aspect, noting how patients form bonds and support networks that are crucial for their healing journey. “We always hope that our patients have friends and family that they can rely on and get support from, but where else can you be in a room with 12 other patients and everyone has some sort of recent cardiac diagnosis? That bond is strong.” 

Looking to the Future 

Today, the Claiborne and Jo Ann Bickham Cardiac Rehabilitation Education Center stands as a testament to an enduring legacy of love. The Bickhams' generosity has touched countless lives, with Jennifer adding, “There aren't words to express how thankful I am to Jo Ann and Clay for what they’ve done. The impact of this gift is nothing short of amazing.”

 
Jennifer Holder and Jo Ann Bickham

Jennifer hopes that in the next five years, cardiac rehab will be covered for virtual appointments, allowing the center to offer a hybrid program that combines in-person and virtual sessions. There are also plans to introduce new classes and activities, such as yoga, stretching and strengthening exercises, to further support patients' physical and mental well-being.  

Another key initiative is to expand the educational offerings by creating a library of recorded sessions that patients can access remotely. This will be particularly beneficial for patients who have difficulty attending in-person sessions due to work or other commitments.  

“We are just so proud and humbled to be able to do this,” Jo Ann says. “I think UCHealth is a special place with excellent facilities. Not many hospitals have research buildings right next door, or collaborative partnerships with physicians all in one place. I’m quite proud of the small part we played in helping others.”

Recipe: Jo Ann Bickham's Heart-Healthy Cranberry Nut Clusters

Watch Liz Muscatello and Nicole Rodriguez whip up this tasty treat in our staff kitchen (AKA copy room).

Ingredients:

• 1½ - 2 cups fresh cranberries, washed and thoroughly dried, or dried cranberries
• 2 x 12 oz packages of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips. The darker the chocolate chips, the more heart healthy your treats will be!
• 1 cup coarsely broken pieces of walnuts

Steps:

1. Melt chocolate.
2. Add berries and nuts. Mix well.
3. Drop by teaspoon onto waxed paper.
4. Let cool in the refrigerator (or on countertop if in a cool room) and serve when hardened.
5. Store in a cool place.