June 4, 2026 | By atriumdev2020 | In Grateful Patients
Recently retired as CEO of Barings, Tom Finke was planning new business ventures, traveling with family, and staying deeply engaged in the community as co-chair of Atrium Health Foundation’s Giving Hope campaign. The last thing on his mind was a health scare. In walked a huge dose of reality at his routine physical when his doctor expressed concern over his high calcium score. “This score still bothers me,” said Dr. Michael Johnson, Tom’s physician at Atrium Health Concierge Care. “I want you to have another scan.”
Tom found himself at Atrium Health Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute, where he underwent a high-tech CT angiogram that revealed shadows on his heart. The results of a follow-up heart catheterization were shocking: Tom had an 85%blockage. He was 15% away from a major heart attack. “They say until you face a major surgery, you kind of think you’re bulletproof,” said Tom, who hadn’t experienced any symptoms associated with his heart condition.
“It was crucial that we found this blockage when we did because it allowed us to intervene before any permanent damage occurred,” said Dr. Bradley LeNoir, a cardiothoracic surgeon at Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute. In September 2025, Dr. LeNoir took Tom’s heart into his hands and performed life-saving triple bypass surgery. Recovery brought Tom to cardiac rehab three mornings a week, where the support of trainers and nurses helped him regain strength and confidence.
“The staff there is great, and the education you get is fantastic,” he said.
Tom’s journey inspired him to support others facing similar challenges. At the 2026 Cupid’s Cup 5K, he championed the cause of cardiac rehab and the importance of supporting those who couldn’t access the fullness of this program. For Tom, the race is more than a run —it’s a celebration of life, community, and the power of giving back. “I’m blessed to have had medical providers like Dr. Johnson and Dr. LeNoir. Because of them, I’m here and even more committed to making sure that in the areas that Atrium Health serves, we’re getting the best care to everybody.”