The Miracle of a Heart Transplant

Summary:

FACT: Cardiac arrest remains a public health crisis. There are more than 356,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCA) annually in the U.S., nearly 90% of them fatal. *according to The American Heart Association, Heart and Stroke Statistics - 2022 Update report

That's a daunting statistic and one that can feel especially personal if you or someone you love has experienced cardiac arrest. And for our guest, Claire Larson, it is personal. She joins us today to share her story of surviving cardiac arrest,  her recovery and ongoing journey after receiving a heart transplant, and the advice she would give to others facing similar challenges. She also talks about donor advocacy, and why she believes that organ donation is such an important cause.

Claire's story is one of hope, resilience, and courage, and we are so grateful that she shared it with us. We hope you enjoy this conversation.

Learn More About Claire:

At the age of 29, Claire was an aerobic instructor; exercising every day. She was happy and healthy with not a care in the world when she unexpectedly collapsed. Soon after she found out she had been living with a rare congenital heart defect. Her life was changed from this point forward. And although she knew this was something she would battle with forever, she never lost her spirit for life and was ready to fight for every moment. Claire was told early on that this would be a long road. Since that day, Claire has undergone multiple surgeries, and in 2016, she finally received a new heart.

Key Takeaways:

• [1:02] Get to know Claire and her story
• [3:46] A pivotal event at 29 years old that irrevocably changed Claire's life
• [8:19] The disease that’s the #1 killer of women
• [12:08] Claire shares her experience with her heart transplant 
• [16:46] Following her heart transplant, Claire describes her “new normal”
• [19:36] Why being a donor helps save lives 
• [24:20] Claire's top health and wellness advice for women
• [25:20] Walk through a day in a life with Claire and her new heart
• [26:40] The advice Claire would give her 20-year-old self

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