I Am a 36 Year Old With a Pacemaker

This past February was the one-year anniversary of a life changing event for me. I know that I learn from the experiences of others, so I now have this opportunity to educate others through my experience.

On February 27, 2014, I was admitted to Borgess after being in and out of hospitals for several weeks with heart-related symptoms (heart racing, dizzy spells, blurred vision, etc). Several tests were run and despite a few elevated EKGs and occasions of catching a heart rate spike on the monitor nothing major stood out. I know my body and knew this was not normal by any means. Thankfully the staff at Borgess listened as I expressed my concerns and admitted me. Within minutes of being admitted into my room and sending my family home I fainted. My heart completely stopped – flat lined. I woke to about 30 people in my room working frantically on me. I wasn’t just another person…they treated me like a family member that they were trying to save. I was scared. I remember asking that someone stay with me and the team ensured that someone was by my bedside until I felt comfortable.

As I spent the night in ICU I thought a lot. What if I actually died? What would my husband and kids have done? What could I have done to avoid this? The next morning I woke up to hear my husband and dad discussing options with the cardiologist. The next thing I knew I was a 36 year old with a pacemaker. I am alive, I am thankful and I am more knowledgeable.

I was so glad I chose to go to Borgess. Everything from bed side manner to the treatment I received was top notch. I am thankful to the entire staff that kept me alive!