A Family History of Care and a Legacy of Support

The Yahnis Family’s Gratitude for Exceptional Care Continues Through Generations

For brothers Byron and Jimmy Yahnis appreciation for the McLeod Heart and Vascular Institute began with the exceptional care their late father, Chris, received in the 1990s.

“Dad trusted McLeod, and he made sure we knew we should trust it, too,” the brothers explained. “He also taught us the value of giving back as we witnessed his support for the McLeod Health Foundation.”

Byron and Jimmy, co-owners of the Yahnis Company in Florence, had uneventful medical histories themselves.

However, in 2024, Jimmy began noticing that something was a little off.

After a few days of playing golf, he felt lightheaded. Weeks later, he began feeling dizzy and unusually fatigued.

Upon recommendations from friends in the medical field, Jimmy decided to see Dr. Brian Wall, an Interventional Cardiologist with McLeod Cardiology Associates. Though Jimmy lives in Murrells Inlet, he recalled his late father’s advice and chose to drive to Florence for his consultation.

Early tests revealed nothing abnormal, but Dr. Wall was adamant something was wrong.

“Dr. Wall would not stop searching for the problem and would not release me until he figured out what was going on,” Jimmy recalled.

After an exploratory heart catheterization, Dr. Wall gave Jimmy some sobering news -- he needed double bypass surgery.

“I made it my whole life with no big health issues,” Jimmy remarked. “This news was a real shock to hear.”

At 69, the same age his father had triple bypass surgery, Jimmy underwent his own double bypass surgery.

Dr. Cary Huber with McLeod Cardiothoracic Surgical Associates performed the surgery. Jimmy spent the following days recovering in the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit at McLeod Regional Medical Center.

“The entire experience was just seamless,” Jimmy reflected. “I could not have gotten through it without the

amazing care from the nurses and my wife, Patti, who was there for me every step.”

Soon after the surgery, Jimmy and Byron decided they wanted to express their gratitude through a gift supporting McLeod Cardiac Services.

“We want to give back through our company to support excellent healthcare in our region,” Jimmy explained. “Because of the care I received, I’m getting my life back. I get to watch my grandson grow up and have a little fun with the time I have left. I’m grateful.”