How This 37-Year-Old Mom Learned to Thrive With Congestive Heart Failure

Living with Congestive Heart Failure: Joanne Matos’ Journey to Thriving

Joanne Matos, a 37-year-old mother of two, has spent her life navigating the challenges of congestive heart failure, a condition that affects nearly 6.7 million adults in the United States. Her journey is one of resilience, hope, and the unwavering dedication to living an active life despite the limitations imposed by her condition. Born with a heart condition, Joanne has faced numerous medical crises, including a stroke and two heart attacks, but she has consistently found ways to adapt and thrive. With the support of her family, medical team, and her own determination, Joanne’s story serves as a testament to the power of positivity and proactive healthcare.

A Lifelong Battle with Heart Disease

Joanne’s heart condition began early in life, and by her teenage years, doctors had already warned her about the risks of pregnancy due to her enlarged heart and congestive heart failure. However, at just 16 years old, she discovered she was pregnant with her first son. Despite initial concerns, Joanne embraced the pregnancy, calling it a "miracle" that changed her life for the better. Eight years later, she welcomed her second son, and motherhood became her greatest motivation to stay healthy and active.

Growing up, Joanne was passionate about sports, playing basketball and soccer despite her heart condition. Her love for sports often led to seizures after games, but she refused to let her health issues hold her back. “I was the star,” she recalls, reflecting on her determination to live a normal life. Even as a mother, she stayed active with her children, coaching their sports teams and attending their activities. However, her health began to deteriorate in 2018 when she experienced a medical crisis while training for a 5K.

Overcoming Medical Crises: A Stroke and Silent Heart Attacks

In 2018, Joanne’s life took a dramatic turn when she suffered a stroke during a treadmill workout. She recalls feeling nauseous and disoriented, with her vision spinning. Fearing for her youngest son, who was home at the time, she chose not to call 911 and instead rode out the episode. The next day, she went to work with a swollen face and persistent headaches, thinking she might have internal bleeding. It wasn’t until she visited the hospital that doctors confirmed she had suffered a stroke.

Joanne also experienced silent heart attacks, which occur without warning signs or symptoms. These events are caused by blockages in the heart’s arteries, damaging the heart muscle. Despite these challenges, Joanne remained determined to regain her health. Her doctors recommended a left ventricular assist device (LVAD), a mechanical heart pump used in severe heart failure cases, but Joanne initially declined due to the lifestyle restrictions it imposed, such as avoiding swimming and contact sports.

Embracing Advanced Treatment and a New Lease on Life

By 2020, Joanne’s symptoms had worsened significantly. She experienced weight gain, difficulty breathing, and severe swelling in her legs and feet, making everyday tasks like climbing stairs nearly impossible. Despite these challenges, she continued working and caring for her children. During a heart catheterization procedure, doctors informed her that her organs were shutting down, and an LVAD was her only option for survival.

“The choice was life or death,” Joanne recalls. “They told me I wouldn’t survive the weekend without the LVAD.” This time, she agreed to the procedure and received the Abbott HeartMate 3 LVAD. The road to recovery was grueling, requiring six months of intense rehabilitation. However, Joanne’s determination to regain her independence pushed her to move more each day. Today, she exercises regularly, using an elliptical machine, and hopes to participate in a 5K soon.

While the LVAD has brought significant improvements to her health, it has also required sacrifices, such as giving up kayaking and swimming. Yet, Joanne emphasizes that these sacrifices are worth it. “The moment I woke up from surgery, I could breathe again,” she says. “People take these little things for granted.”

The Importance of Regular Screenings and Ongoing Care

Joanne’s journey highlights the critical role of regular medical screenings and follow-ups in managing heart failure. Tests such as electrocardiograms (ECGs), echocardiograms, and blood tests are essential for monitoring the condition and adjusting treatment plans. Joanne’s doctors have praised her diligence in adhering to her treatment regimen and attending regular appointments.

Joanne’s resilience has inspired her medical team, who now plan to place her on the heart transplant list next year. While she waits, she continues to advocate for heart health awareness, encouraging others to prioritize their health and stay positive.

Thriving with Heart Failure: A Message of Hope

Joanne Matos’ story is a powerful reminder that heart failure is not a death sentence but a challenge that can be managed with the right treatment and mindset. “Heart failure is just a bump in the road,” she says. “You have to believe in yourself, trust your doctors, and follow your medications. But most importantly, stay positive.”

As February marks American Heart Month, Joanne’s journey serves as a timely reminder of the importance of heart health. By sharing her story, she hopes to inspire others to take control of their health and never lose hope. With a new lease on life, Joanne is proof that even in the face of adversity, it’s possible to thrive and live a fulfilling life.