New to PMC

• by angelo
• 2007-04-17 09:04:33
• General Posting
• 1690 views
• 5 comments

Active and in good health after only 3 or 4 days of feeling a little dizzy and faint on Feb 28, 2007 I actually fainted at a site just 2 miles from St. Lukes (Mayo) Hospital. Fortunately my wife was with me and able to drive me to the Hospital. I walked into the ER and blacked out for real at the ER desk. When the EMT tried to take my vitals there was no pulse and he began Chest compression. Within minutes I was wheeled into the ER and had several attendants treating me and they called for the Cardi Team. While recieving Chest Compression I heard the ER Dr. announce that I had flatlined agian. Simutaneously I communed with God (which is another story for those who are interested). I had an assurance of my salvation and was remarkably at total peace without any fear or pain. I knew I could have released my spirit from my body and this earth with as much effort as a sigh, but wanted to sta because of my wife and grandkids. I was actually given the choice to stay (twice). I was rushed to the cardio lab where a temp PM was inserted into my groin. I soon learned that I had flatlined three times suffered a 3rd degree AV block and had Vfib causing an erratic delay in the lower potion of the heart and required the implantataion of a permanent PM/DFIB. This news was shocking. I am only 59 very active with no medical problems. That night was tough but I prayed and endured as the reality of my situaltion sunk in. I am blessed to have great family friends and church support. My Medtronics Vituoso combo PM/DFIB was implanted the next afternoon. Recovery was a bit uncomfortable but swift. 48 hours after walking into the Hosipital I walked out. Everyone on staff asked me if I knew how lucky I was and told me I was a walking miracle. I told them that I am a blessed man. My recovery has been remarkable with no complications I even was released to go to Israel on a planned trip 3 weeks later. The ordeal is surreal and sometimes because I am so back to normal I expect to wake up and it will all be a dream. The realty that I have been given a second chance at life becomes more real everyday. I thank God every day and am grateful to the Drs nurses and attendants at St. Lukes Jacksonville, Fl. The Pacemaker club website is a real opportunity to share the awesomeness of our experiences with folks that really understand. Thanks for all of your encouragement and support.