The heart-shaped flower bed at the Latvian Centre of Cardiology of Pauls Stradiņš Clinical University Hospital has been officially unveiled for the new summer season. Over the years, it has become a symbol of continuous care for cardiovascular health and quality of life. Just as a flower bed requires regular care and attention to thrive, our health also depends on daily care, preventive action, and a long-term commitment to healthy living.
To encourage people to continue monitoring their health, "Mēness aptieka", a long-standing supporter of the initiative, has symbolically presented patients at the Latvian Centre of Cardiology with health monitoring booklets to help them keep track of their key health indicators.
The opening ceremony of the heart-shaped flower bed was attended by Professor Andrejs Ērglis, Head of the Latvian Centre of Cardiology, and Jeļena Petrišina, pharmacist and member of the board at "Mēness aptieka". They emphasised that maintaining good cardiovascular health is not a one-day goal but a lifelong commitment, requiring both high-quality medical care and each individual's active involvement in looking after their own health.
Professor Andrejs Ērglis, Head of the Latvian Centre of Cardiology, says: "The heart is an extraordinarily remarkable and powerful organ that functions at its best only when all of its structures work in harmony. The same principle applies to cardiovascular care – the best outcomes are achieved through close collaboration between healthcare professionals from different disciplines, with pharmacists playing an important role. This idea is also reflected in the heart-shaped flower bed: each flower is beautiful on its own, but it is the carefully tended garden as a whole that creates something truly meaningful."
Jeļena Petrišina, pharmacist and member of the board at "Mēness aptieka", emphasises: "Recovery and heart care do not end when a patient leaves the hospital. They continue through healthy daily habits, regular monitoring of key health indicators, and responsible use of prescribed medications. As we continue to care for the symbolic heart-shaped flower bed, we have also prepared a special gift for patients this year. The health monitoring booklets are a practical tool that serves as a daily reminder to take care of your heart. Every recorded measurement, every dose of medication taken on time, and every conversation with a doctor or pharmacist is a step towards a longer and healthier life. It is an invitation to hear your heart – and to care for it every day."
This year's opening of the new season for the heart-shaped flower bed reflects the message of the "Hear Your Heart!" public awareness campaign, encouraging everyone to pay attention to their key health indicators, undergo regular preventive health check-ups, and seek medical advice at an early stage when needed.
To improve public awareness of cardiovascular disease and its links to other health conditions, "Mēness aptieka", "Veselības centru apvienība", "Centrālā laboratorija", and "Olpha" are running the "Hear Your Heart!" public awareness campaign throughout June.
