“Jefferson Gave Me My Voice Back”

Bobby Aita

Bobby Aita

Robert “Bobby” Aita was 11 years old when he filled his South Philly neighborhood with big band tunes and Frank Sinatra melodies. As a young man, Bobby performed with the Leisure Lads throughout Philadelphia, recorded a demo in 1959, and signed with Swan Records on a four-year contract.

Fast forward to 2010 – Bobby’s booming voice was losing its strength due to shortness of breath from congestive heart failure. Although he was being treated for his condition, he just didn’t feel his best. He went to the bank to start preparing his will and the teller recommended that he go to Jefferson.

At the Jefferson Heart Institute, Bobby worked with Dr. Raphael Bonita to get back on track. He started eating right, taking appropriate medications, received a pacemaker and now works closely with Dr. Bonita and the Jefferson Heart Institute team to maintain his health. The team’s approach to patient care looks at the person’s whole health – physical, mental and social – to improve quality of life.

“Jefferson gave me my voice back,” Bobby said – and he’s willing to prove it.

Bobby Aita & Stephanie Cozzi, RN

Bobby Aita & Stephanie Cozzi, RN

Stephanie Cozzi, RN is Bobby’s nurse at Jefferson Heart Institute, and often an audience member when Bobby breaks into song mid-exam.

“She’s my favorite nurse,” Bobby said.

“It’s our care coordination and team approach that really makes the difference for our patients’ well-being.” said Cozzi. “We regularly follow up with our patients by phone, in addition to office visits, to check in and see how they are doing. And they call us if they experience any change in how they feel. This approach allows our patients to get the most out of their care and live a fuller life.”

Now a resident of Burlington, NJ, Bobby performs at neighborhood parties and brings back the days of The Rat Pack, living his life at full volume.

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