My Story Continued…
On March 28th, 2022, my life took an unexpected turn. I was implanted with an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) after suffering from a conscious ventricular tachycardia (VT) episode.
Upon arrival at the first hospital, I experienced what is known as a “VT storm,” where my heart would not return to a normal sinus rhythm.
The medical team had to use automated external defibrillator paddles 14 times while rushing me from one hospital to a specialized cardiac care unit.
I spent two weeks in the hospital recovering and awaiting my implant date. Once the ICD was placed in my chest, a new challenge began: the mental battle.
The adjustment period was filled with constant anxiety, stemming from not knowing when, where, or if I would be shocked. My concerns were confirmed in May 2022 when I encountered another VT storm.
I received nine appropriate shocks within 30 minutes before being intubated and placed in a medically induced coma. During this storm, my heart rate soared to 280 bpm.
Forty-eight hours into the coma, my resting heart rate remained around 140 bpm. Seventy-two hours later, I was awakened and transferred from the ICU to the Cardiac Care Unit (CCU).
The path to recovery involved multiple therapy sessions, medication adjustments, sleepless nights, and battling PTSD. Despite these challenges, I have traveled across North America, attended concerts, climbed a “small” mountain on vacation, completed cardiac rehab, welcomed our newborn daughter Ella, and regained my life.
Now, I am dedicated to sharing my story, connecting with others facing similar challenges, and providing guidance and support. Through numerous therapy sessions, I have found comfort in sharing experiences with fellow ICD recipients.
Together, we can navigate this journey, address the emotional aspects, and celebrate the victories of our life-saving devices.
Let’s embark on this journey together.
