My health journey began as a 20 year old college senior. After being diagnosed with hypertrophicardiomypathy (a muscle bound heart), I became a case study at the National Institute of Health in Bethesda, Maryland. In the beginning, medication helped and I had 3 healthy children and a 32 year career in CMS. Cardiac care and 3 pacemakers/defibulator followed with heart procedures over the years in Boston, Chapel Hill and Charlotte. Despite numerous hospitalizations, the procedures were not successful and my health steadily declined. On February 10, 2014, I received my life saving heart transplant at Duke. Recovery and rehab followed and I am now able to enjoy volunteer opportunities in both my church and community. Among my many blessings is time spent with my family, especially my 3 grandsons.
I encourage others to express their desire to be an organ donor by making your wishes known the next time you visit the DMV. Pay It Forward!