Lashawnda Walker: Grateful for Each Day
My heart story started in July 2017 when I experienced syncope episodes (fainting) twice, sometimes three times a week. Each time I had an episode, I would seek medical attention at the hospital. The diagnosis was bradycardia – a heart rate that’s too slow – during each hospitalization in July. I grew weaker and was unable to resume my daily life functions.
On August 3, 2017, my son and I were packing to send him off to college when I experienced what felt like was a heart attack. My son looked into my eyes; as I grasped my chest crawling on the floor, he kept asking me, what’s wrong? And I could not speak.
My son immediately dialed 911 and when I arrived at the hospital I was admitted for further testing. The diagnosis was a heart attack.
Just two weeks later, I received a cardiac pacemaker.
I feel grateful each day for the device and a second chance at life. I am also grateful that my son knew to quickly respond and call 911.
I am a living example of how research and creating new cardiac devices can change lives.
