Moraine Valley Community College students got an up-close look at the precision and teamwork behind open-heart surgery earlier this month, joining a livestream of a coronary artery bypass procedure broadcast from Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn.
The November viewing was part of “Live From the Heart,” a long-running collaboration between the hospital and the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry that allows high school and college students to observe a real surgery in real time. Surgeons, nurses, physician assistants and other operating room staff explained each phase of the operation and answered questions submitted by viewers.
Moraine Valley hosts the event once a semester for Nursing and Health Sciences Program students, though anyone on campus can attend. Many who watched said the experience offered clarity, and inspiration, about future career paths.
“This event gives students a chance to see what actually happens during open-heart surgery and how many professionals are involved,” said Anna Jannak, assistant professor and co-coordinator of the Medical Assistant Program. “One student told me she had never heard of a perfusionist until this event. After virtually speaking with one, she’s now exploring that field. It’s exciting to see students discover new passions.”
Jannak guided the classroom audience while the surgery played on a large screen, explaining each step and highlighting the coordination required among operating room staff.
Some students described the experience as transformative.
“This viewing inspired my whole career to another level,” said nursing student Jasmin Fregoso, of Summit. “Watching the team work together was incredible. It made me want to be part of something like that one day.”
Medical assisting student Nicole Langton, of Tinley Park, said the event changed her understanding of cardiac care. “Seeing the heart beating up close was unforgettable,” she said. “Watching the team remove the great saphenous vein and use it for grafting really surprised me. It made me think about possibly working in cardiology in the future.”
Moraine Valley’s next “Live From the Heart” livestream is scheduled for April 8, 2026.