07/29/2026
Jay and Sandra aren’t slowing down in their late 70s – they’re living with purpose.
Married for nearly 50 years, the couple fills their days with cycling, gardening, volunteering in the Great Smoky Mountains and cheering on the Lady Vols. Staying active isn’t just something they enjoy – it’s a key part of how they approach their health.
“We don’t go to doctors’ appointments alone,” Jay said. “We go together. We listen, take notes and ask questions.”
That mindset has shaped their long-standing relationship with their care team at UT Medical.
Since moving to East Tennessee in 2013, both have been under the care of cardiologist Dr. Jerry Crook, who has helped them proactively manage their heart health.
From monitoring a congenital heart condition to managing cholesterol and participating in a clinical trial focused on lowering LDL, Jay and Sandra have embraced a proactive, preventive approach to care.
But for them, it comes back to something simple.
“Dr. Crook always says, ‘Keep doing what you’re doing,’” Jay said. “It’s about maintaining your lifestyle.”
That lifestyle includes staying active, eating well and staying connected to their community. They volunteer with the National Park Service, support local arts and athletics and look for ways to give back – including honoring caregivers and team members through UT Medical’s Guardian Angel Pin program.
“We believe in our doctors,” Sandra said. “We talk to them, and the personal side really comes out. That’s important to us.”
As they look ahead to celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary, Jay and Sandra remain focused on what has brought them this far – a shared commitment to each other, their health and lives well-lived.
At UT Medical, we’re proud to support patients like Jay and Sandra through every stage of life. Proud to be named one of America’s Best Employers for Company Culture 2025 by Forbes – and proud to care for you.
https://www.utmedical.org/blog-post/partners-life-and-health
