The Director of the UC Davis Cardiac Rehabilitation Program, Dr. Tissa Kappagoda, died in late 2014. He championed the Cardiovascular Wellness Program at California State University Sacramento. It is a free and accessible heart health clinic for people who meet certain criteria. Kappagoda was hoping this pilot program would become a model for similar programs across the country. His memorial service is being held Sunday on the UC Davis campus.

Beth Ruyak spoke with Kappagoda about his wellness program in July of 2014. We’re rebroadcasting a portion of that interview ahead of Sunday’s memorial service.

In lieu of flowers, people are encouraged to make donations to Dr. K's temple, the American Buddhist Seminary temple in Sacramento. They are trying to build a new temple so people can contribute to the building fund. Here's the information:

423 Glide Avenue
West Sacramento, CA 95691

Donations could also be made to his Foundation for Health, supporting the Cardiovascular Wellness Program at CSUS.

For more information on the UC Davis Cardiac Rehabilitation Program (there is no website), contact: 

Dianne Hyson, PhD, CSUS Associate Dean and Registered Dietician at  [email protected]