Prisma Health HeartLife program patient launches salt-free seasoning after surviving heart attack and stroke

GREENVILLE, S.C.—An Upstate vocal coach who survived a heart attack and stroke was moved not only to change his own habits as a result but to encourage others as well. Coach Robert Hoefer Jr. is celebrating nearly two years of healthy living after a heart attack and stroke prompted him to complete the HeartLife program at Prisma Health. Hoefer, a barbecue aficionado who had already begun selling his “secret recipe,” launched a salt-free version that allows him and others to eat healthier while still enjoying great flavors.

In Spring 2019, Hoefer suffered a heart attack and stroke and was diagnosed with congestive heart failure. As someone who had always taken care of their physical health – working out an average of four times a week – this was a clear indication to Hoefer that he needed to begin prioritizing his nutrition as well. He had already launched a line of food seasonings known as Carolina Bob’s but now realized a need for a salt-free, heart healthy option to add flavor to all meats, veggies, and seafood. He worked with the Food and Drug Administration and the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control to meet all requirements for the creation of a unique, salt-free seasoning blend that would capture the same flavors as the rest of his Carolina Bob’s Grillin’ Sauces LLC products.

While working to launch this product, Hoefer continued his treatment at the Prisma Health Life Center Health and Conditioning Club. Through the HeartLife program, he completed guided exercises, received nutrition counseling and was given tools to better manage stress and improve his emotional well-being. After six months, Hoefer had regained nearly all of his strength. He is now able to lean on the information he gained in the HeartLife program to maintain his health as he continues to work out at least four days per week.

“I will be forever grateful for the care I received from the Prisma Health medical team and the staff at the Prisma Health Life Center Health and Conditioning Club,” said Hoefer. “Attending the cardiac rehabilitation program gave me my life back, and the staff’s knowledge of health and nutrition has allowed me to stay on top of my goals without sacrificing taste in my food. Knowing that I can now help others take more control over their diet through my salt-free seasonings makes the journey worthwhile.”

“Coach Robert took charge of his heart health after his diagnosis and is a great example of what can be accomplished if you are committed to change,” said Andrea Bryan, MD, medical director of HeartLife. “I’m thankful that we were able to provide emergency response for his heart attack and stroke, nurse him back to health and send him home with the tools he needs to sustain a healthy lifestyle. The HeartLife program is one of the top cardiac rehabilitation and prevention programs in the country, and we are proud to help patients return to a full, active life.”

Hoefer’s Carolina Bob’s No Salt dry rub and all-purpose seasoning is sold at various Food Lion locations throughout the state and The Cook’s Station in downtown Greenville. You can find out more at CarolinaBobsGrillin.com.

About Prisma Health

Prisma Health is a not-for-profit health company and the largest healthcare system in South Carolina. With nearly 30,000 team members, 18 acute and specialty hospitals, 2,947 beds and more than 300 outpatient sites with nearly 2,000 physicians, Prisma Health serves more than 1.2 million unique patients annually in its 21-county market area that covers 50% of South Carolina. Prisma Health’s goal is to improve the health of all South Carolinians by enhancing clinical quality, the patient experience and access to affordable care, as well as conducting clinical research and training the next generation of medical professionals. For more information, visit PrismaHealth.org.