Hi - My name is John Vance. I'm 58 years old and a recent survivor of heart disease having completed CABG (Coronary Artery Bypass Graft surgery) in December 2022. My story is a common one:
I started having a decline in energy in the last year, especially when exercising. This became more notable and frequent leading into summer 2022 and by November the fatique had evolved into some angina (chest pain).. I started to need breaks with physical activity.
I went to the emergency room on primary Dr's orders and had a hard time convincing the attending staff of the issue, leading to 2 days of tests including an angiogram, which confirmed 80% blockage in multiple coronary arteries and the need for CABG surgery. In the end I had 4 coronary bypasses and 3 months of cardiac rehab to recover from the major trauma of this surgery.
I feel lucky.. that I pushed to discover the cause of my symptoms, that I received world-class care at the Univ of MN, and that I had the family/work support that I needed leading to the healthy outcome that I have today. I want to spread the word on heart disease and support in any way I can to help others on their journeys to heart health, for themselves and their loved ones.
I'm participating in the upcoming Twin Cities Heartwalk because I know that with every step, I’m making a difference in someone’s life. And when combined with a million other Heart Walk Heroes across the nation, we have an even greater impact toward curing heart disease and stroke.
Consider donating to our cause and help me reach my goal! Your donation will fund groundbreaking research that literally keeps hearts beating and helps people have longer, healthier lives.
