Advocate patient unfurls Bear Down flag in Chicago Bears pregame ceremony

Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital patient Sudhakar Sheth was recognized as the Chicago Bears' special guest during the Bear Down flag ceremony on Dec. 4.

In partnership with Advocate Health Care, the Chicago Bears invited Sheth, 71, of Lombard to help unfurl the Bear Down flag and participate in pregame activities at Soldier Field.

He was joined on the field by his physician, Advocate cardiologist Dr. Mahesh Raju before returning to the stands to watch the Bears face the Packers.

Sheth first became a patient of Dr. Raju at the Advocate Health Care South Asian Cardiovascular Center when he decided to get screened. Sheth had significant family history of heart disease and saw both of his brothers undergo bypass surgery.

As South Asians, his family carries a heightened risk, being four times as likely to have heart disease, and often at younger ages.

Knowing this risk, Sheth went for testing at the center, which not only treats patients, but also educates the South Asian community on their risk factors and prevention tips.

After learning his calcium score was elevated, he went to see Dr. Raju for a non-invasive procedure and medication.

Because Sheth knew his risk and made sure to seek out care, he can manage his mild heart disease without more invasive measures and is doing well.

To show his gratitude, Sheth invited Dr. Raju to accompany him for his big day at Soldier Field.