By Delilah Nosek
Starting in 2004, I was diagnosed with congestive heart failure. The prognosis was not good. With the cardiologist tweaking the medications and doing the cardiac rehabilitation, I was having the quality of life I desired. Enjoyment of life was good until 2019 when I noticed a significant decline in my health. Simple daily tasks were difficult to do. No energy or motivation to do such tasks and experiencing shortness of breath. My cardiologist did everything that could be done with no improvement. Therefore, he referred me to the Santa Clara Heart Failure and Transplant Clinic in Santa Clara. The cardiologists there specialize in other options when medications and pacemakers are not enough.
This is where my journey begins. At the clinic, different tests and medication adjustments made with no significant change. Finally, I was told the medications were not working. and still experiencing shortness of breath. Bottom line: my heart was failing and not pumping blood sufficiently. There was an option the LVAD (Left Ventricular Assistive Device) which helps the heart pump blood. If I did not want the LVAD procedure done.I would go home with medications with 6 months to a year to live. At first shock and denial, I thought to myself, these words are for someone else not me! The tears flowing down my cheeks overwhelmed by the realization of the situation. Death was not an option. After careful consideration, the decision was made to have the LVAD procedure. I was told I was a good candidate. It is not automatic. Qualification and requirements are to be met. I was admitted into the hospital on March 18, 2021. In the hospital, I went through tests in which the requirements were met. My doctor presented my case to a committee of doctors. The irony is that all doctors have to agree. Terrified at the thought of rejection, I prayed to God and left the situation in His Hands. I was given the news that I qualified to have the LVAD surgery. On April 9, 2021, I had open heart surgery to have the LVAD placed.
After the surgery, I began the recovery with the LVAD. Life would be different. I was committed to the change in lifestyle. There were the adjustments, like the fact that I am on portable life support, batteries to be charged and the controller as well, learning how to use the equipment and maintenance on the equipment, every day logging the information from the LVAD. After discharging from the hospital, there were setbacks along the way to recovery. I knew it was not going to be easy. I endured with the good support system of faith in God, husband, family, friends, and CARE team.
Currently, I am in a good place. I am enjoying my life. I am having the quality of life I want. I have no regrets having had the LVAD procedure. In fact, it has given me more time to live. And that is a priceless gift.
Delilah is 71 years old with a great love of life. She enjoys drawing, volunteering her time to help other LVAD individuals in their journey in adjusting to their new lifestyle, socializing with friends and participating in community events.
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