I was close to having a heart attack and didn't even know it

Sean Cass’ days in Boca Raton are built around caring for two aging parents with two very different sets of needs. ​

As a primary caregiver, Sean prepares meals, does laundry, organizes medications, manages appointments and handles the countless day-to-day responsibilities that allow his parents to continue receiving care and support at home. His mother has mobility challenges and a history of strokes, while his father lives with dementia, memory loss and skin cancer.​

“Caregiving for both of my parents can take a huge toll on my mental health,” he said. ​

For more than a decade, CVS Health has been part of Sean’s own health journey. Today, his Aetna plan allows him to connect virtually with mental health providers from home, giving him access to support without having to step away from his caregiving responsibilities. ​

“I get help while still helping them,” he said, describing the support as “a huge weight lifted off my shoulders.” ​

CVS Health’s support became even more critical when Sean faced a serious health scare. During a routine in-store blood pressure check, his numbers were alarmingly high. MinuteClinic practitioners recognized the danger and urged him to go to the emergency room. At the hospital, he learned he was close to a heart attack. ​

“CVS Health pretty much saved my life,” Sean said. ​

The experience became a turning point. Through major changes to his health and lifestyle, Sean lost 75 pounds, going from 230 to 155, while MinuteClinic providers helped him monitor his blood pressure, review his progress and stay motivated. ​

“CVS has been there to guide me along the way,” he said. ​

With prescriptions, medical supplies and care in one convenient place, Sean spends less time navigating health care and more time being there for his parents—and himself. ​