Wayne Brewer is a physical therapist, educator, and patient advocate who has lived with a rare congenital heart condition known as left ventricular non-compaction syndrome for over 11 years. A lifelong athlete, Wayne’s early signs of heart disease—fatigue, palpitations, and reduced exercise tolerance—emerged in his early 40s, shortly after completing his PhD and transitioning into academia. With more than 23 years of clinical experience in physical therapy, he now serves as a professor, teaching cardiopulmonary rehabilitation to entry-level physical therapy students. 

In 2016, Wayne co-founded a monthly heart failure support group in collaboration with his physician. The group initially met in person, featuring presentations by a multidisciplinary team of experts including physicians, nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, and mental health professionals. When the COVID-19 pandemic began, the group seamlessly transitioned to a virtual format and has continued to meet monthly without interruption. Today, it includes more than 25 regular participants from Houston and beyond. 

Wayne has expanded the program to include an in-hospital peer support initiative, where trained group members visit heart failure patients during hospitalization to offer empathy, advice, and encouragement. Additionally, the group has organized three in-person educational symposiums—comprehensive, six-hour events featuring expert speakers and peer-led discussions focused on living well with heart failure. 

Wayne’s work reflects his deep commitment to education, advocacy, and empowering individuals with heart failure to live full and informed lives.