A Casa Grande High School football coach is sharing his journey with cardiomyopathy to highlight the life-saving power of physical activity.
The Press Democrat reports after experiencing lightheadedness on the field, fifty-year-old Joe Mercado was diagnosed with a heart condition that doctors say is best managed through consistent movement.
Local cardiologists warn that over half of American adults fail to meet federal exercise guidelines, contributing to a rise in preventable chronic diseases. Medical experts at Sutter and Kaiser Permanente emphasize that exercise acts as a “natural medicine” that can add years to a patient’s life. They suggest starting small with daily walks or stairs to combat the sedentary nature of modern lifestyles.
For Mercado, staying active is no longer just a hobby—it is the key to maintaining his quality of life and coaching the next generation.
