Back Taking Daily Walks

In February 2001, Diana Pittman was treated for bronchitis and upper respiratory problems and pneumonia. Diana had no idea how much her life was about to change. She was affected with the most common symptoms of heart failure (HF): shortness of breath and fatigue. As a result, she wasn't able to go on daily walks or to perform her work duties.

Even though she has a family history of heart failure—Diana's dad died of a heart attack and her mom had an enlarged heart due to diabetes—she was stunned when after a blood test, she was diagnosed with heart failure. "I was shocked and feared that I would have a heart attack like my dad."

Doctors immediately placed Diana on the heart transplant list. She was admitted to the hospital the next day, where she stayed one week and was given diuretics and other medication to reduce fluid build up.

In early 2003, Diana learned about a new heart failure device from St. Jude Medical, the Epic™ HF CRT-D (that was in clinical trials). "I felt ready for it," Diana shared. This innovative device is designed to resynchronize the beating of the heart's ventricles, improving the quality of life for many people with heart failure, including Diana. Her shortness of breath has nearly disappeared, allowing her to once again take daily walks.

Watch video: CRT System

Today Diana's busy life includes crocheting, cooking, and attending church, where she dedicates extra time to helping others. Diana is proud of her two children and spends as much time with them as possible. Her daughter Angelica works for the U.S. Air Force. Her son Christopher is an accomplished college football player.

Diana says, "I'm proud to be part of a procedure that could help my children and grandchildren someday."