Lenore Beetar isn’t like most 92-year-olds.
Her life has always been about movement, grace and energy, qualities vital to a dancer. For four years, from 1944 to 1948, Beetar was a Radio City Rockette.
But, over the summer, her daughter, Lenore Reeves, noticed her once lively mother was suddenly acting differently.
“I just knew something was wrong because she wasn’t being herself. I kept saying to her, ‘You’re so out of breath. You don’t have any energy. There’s something wrong here.”
That’s when she took her mother to see a doctor, who put her on a heart monitor. The monitor showed Beetar’s heartbeat was dropping, explaining some of her recent symptoms. Beetar was referred to Electrophysiologist, Dr. Aysha Arshad.
Electrophysiology is a subspecialty within cardiology where doctors train in rhythm disorders and how to fix them. Often these disorders are corrected with an implant device, most commonly known as a pacemaker.
“Pacemaker is a device that can help patients with a low heart rate. It can also help in patients with alternating slow and fast heart rates where medicines may be needed, which can aggravate the slow heart rhythm. So, a pacemaker would stabilize a heart rhythm in that circumstance,” explains Dr. Arshad.
[ngg_images gallery_ids=”818″ display_type=”ds-nextgen_royalslider”]
Dr. Arshad explained to the family the benefits of a pacemaker. The workings of the device weren’t foreign to them since a close relative had one, but Reeves’ worried her mother’s memory issues could cause problems with recovery. That’s when they started exploring the Micra Pacemaker, the world’s smallest pacemaker, as an option.
It’s something many of Dr. Arshad’s patients are pursuing.
“It’s a miniaturized device containing revolutionary new technology. It’s delivered directly into the heart and cosmetically appealing since there’s no scar. The device itself is as small as a vitamin pill.”
For Lenore Beetar and her family, the recovery time and limited restrictions were key. Beetar spent one night in the hospital before being released. Her daughter says the results were instantly noticeable.
“She had the energy she hadn’t had in three months, it was unbelievable! It made an immediate difference.”
As for the soon-to-be 93-year-old, she barely knows the device is there. “I feel fine. I don’t even think about it! If you asked me about it, I’d say, ‘Oh, I think I have it,’” she shares chuckling.
Reeves recommends the device to everyone, sharing her mother has had little discomfort. Beetar agrees, “I didn’t feel anything!”
“There was no pain, no tenderness. They went in through the groin, it was a couple of stitches and some light bruising. It was very simple from a patient standpoint,” adds Reeves.
It’s been just three months, but already Beetar is back to her vivacious self. And, on a recent shopping trip, she was able to keep searching for deals, just like the old days.
“The procedure was a no-brainer for us,” says Reeves, “It gave my mom her quality of life back.”
Dr. Arshad reminds women their heart disease and heart attack symptoms may be different than men’s. While men are known to have crushing chest pains, women may have jaw or neck pain. They may be sweaty, or like Beetar, have a difference in exercise capacity.
If you’re experiencing chest pains, seek immediate medical attention. To find an Electrophysiologist or Cardiologist who’s right for you, contact 1-800-SENTARA or find a provider at sentara.com.
Recent Stories
Looking for a fun and educational experience for kids? Check out Semillitas: Puerto Rican Bomba Kids. This event brings Puerto Rican bomba songs, dance, and music to Stafford every Sunday starting February 2, 2025, and running through June 1, 2025. Kids will enjoy learning rhythm, dance moves, and songs in an interactive environment.
The classes are designed for children up to 10, with a unique May 4 program featuring visiting artists from Puerto Rico!
Dates: Feb 2nd, Mar 2nd, Apr 6th, Jun 1st
Time: 1:30 pm – 2:15 pm
Location: Virtuous Dance Center, 31 Utah Place #101, Stafford.
Cost: $10 for the first child, $7 for additional children per class, $32 for all four classes for the first child, and $24 for each additional child.
It’s free to submit your events to Potomac Local! Simply visit this link: https://form.jotform.com/221630757468058. Just fill out the details, and we’ll feature your event!
Authorities have released additional details regarding the homicide of 61-year-old Charles Childress and 59-year-old Kimberly Newcomb, whose bodies were discovered on January 25, 2025, at a residence in the 10800 block of Heatherwood Drive.
The Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office initially responded to the home after a concerned friend discovered a deceased female and called 911. Upon arrival, deputies found both victims dead at the scene. Investigators have now confirmed that both victims died from multiple gunshot wounds.
Following the autopsy, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed the cause of death as gunshot wounds. Detectives with the Criminal Investigation Division (CID) continue their investigation and work around the clock to process evidence and interview potential witnesses. While the relationship between the victims remains under investigation, it has been confirmed that they were living together at the residence.
Crews from Stafford Utilities are repairing a water main break on Route 1 southbound near Centreport Parkway. The far-right and center lanes of the highway will be closed to traffic as repairs are made, though the far left lane remains open. Drivers are advised to proceed with caution through the area.
Stafford County spokeswoman Shannon Eubanks said one customer remains without water due to the break. The cause of the water main rupture is still under investigation.
There is no estimated completion time for the repairs, as crews must first identify the problem before calculating how long it will take to fix it. Howell emphasized that safety remains a priority and urged drivers to avoid the closed lanes where possible.
More as we have it.
The Virginia Railway Express (VRE) Operations Board meeting on January 17, 2025, saw several significant discussions aimed at enhancing service and infrastructure across the transit system. Among the most talked-about topics were the introduction of Saturday service, a crucial funding agreement for the Manassas Line, solutions for parking challenges at stations, and major infrastructure projects, including the redevelopment of Seminary Yard and the Long Bridge upgrades. Each of these initiatives is designed to improve the commuter experience and accommodate a growing ridership base.
One of the highlights of the meeting was the ongoing development of Saturday service, a long-awaited addition that has been approved and included in VRE’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget. Set to feature three round-trip trains on the Fredericksburg and Manassas lines, this service is expected to cater to weekend commuters, offering a much-needed alternative to the crowded roads in the region.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
