Remembrances at the funeral of former ⁣Vice president Dick Cheney highlighted his extraordinary resilience and ⁢dedication to public service, even ​in the face​ of serious health ‍challenges. Dr.‌ Jonathan⁢ Reiner,Cheney’s cardiologist for 27 years and a close friend,shared ⁤personal anecdotes ​illustrating ⁤the former Vice ⁤President’s unwavering ⁣determination.

Dr.‌ Reiner recounted that Cheney suffered his first heart attack​ at the age of 37, while actively campaigning for Congress. According to‍ reiner,medical professionals at⁣ the time⁣ advised Cheney‌ to withdraw ​from‍ the ⁤campaign trail. “They didn’t⁤ know Dick Cheney,” Reiner stated. “Or more likely, maybe they ⁢did​ know ​Dick Cheney,‍ and no one had the guts to tell him to quit.”

Reiner also⁣ recalled a critical ‍incident ⁢on‍ September 11,⁣ 2001, when blood work revealed dangerously ⁢high potassium levels ⁣in Cheney’s system – levels ⁣that were potentially⁢ life-threatening. Despite the‍ severity of the situation, Cheney reportedly ‍responded with firm resolve,⁤ stating, ⁤”No, not today.”

Dr. Reiner described Cheney’s ⁤composure even ⁣during his final hospitalization in July 2010, noting that ⁢cheney faced his⁣ mortality with acceptance and readiness. ‌ “He never ⁤looked over his shoulder. He only looked ahead,” Reiner shared.

Cheney ultimately⁢ underwent a heart transplant, a⁤ procedure that extended his life and allowed ​him additional years ​with his family, particularly his‌ grandchildren.