Samantha's Story~
Samantha is a 28 year old diagnosed
with Dilated Genetic Cardiomyopathy at the age of 24. Although looking back now
we can say she had her disease issues in her high school years. When she was
diagnosed in June 2009 it was confirmed she did in fact carry the gene that
took her fathers life at the early age of 39. Samantha’s world turned upside
down, many tests, and numerous cardiologists later, it showed her injection
fraction was a 15, which is dangerously low. A healthy heart should be between
50 and 70. In December of 2009 she received a pacemaker and defibulator.
Samantha tried to carry on to live
a ‘normal’ life but her health was a constant issue. She suffered many side
effects from medicines and was continuously diagnosed with ‘other’ medical
issues or ‘unknowns’. Hindsight is a
beautiful thing because looking back now we clearly see all the while it was
her heart. Since February of 2013 she declined rapidly. Was constantly in and
out of different hospitals. Finally and miraculously landing her in Newark Beth
Israel permanently since August 2013.
Samantha had numerous procedures
during her time here and also withstood 4 major surgeries in a 3 day period.
She intrigued her amazing group of doctors and certainly put her doctors
education and strength to the test. As bad as it got, Samantha and her doctors
continued to try. Her family, friends, wonderful doctors, and power of prayer
gave Sami the will to live.
She received a beautiful heart on
September 28th, 2013. We thank God everyday for the miracle we
witnessed. We thank God for the donor and pray for their family. We hope they
feel our love and appreciation for the life they gave to Samantha.
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