A patient who has benefited from a mechanical heart support device for almost a decade has thanked the Freeman Hospital team for the care and support that has helped him continue living life to the full.
Today (7 July) is International Mechanical Circulatory Support (MCS) Day and Stuart Hind, 61, from Cumbria, is sharing his story to highlight the difference the equipment can make to patients living with advanced heart failure.
Stuart was working for Network Rail when he first started experiencing breathlessness in 2001. He was later diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, a condition that affects the heart muscle. For a number of years, his symptoms were successfully managed with medication, but his health gradually deteriorated and by 2009 he was experiencing increasing breathlessness.
In 2016, Stuart underwent surgery at the Freeman Hospital to have a Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) fitted – a mechanical pump that helps the heart circulate blood around the body.
While adapting to life with the device initially brought challenges, including carrying equipment and doing regular monitoring and checks, Stuart says the LVAD transformed his life.
“It was a big adjustment at first, but it has been a lifesaver,” he said. “I’ve had a good life with it over the last ten years.”
Before becoming unwell, Stuart had always been active and enjoyed the outdoors. Following his recovery, he was able to return to work and continue enjoying many of the activities he loves, including walking in the Lake District and completing some of Alfred Wainwright’s famous fell walks.
Stuart credits much of his confidence and independence to the support he has received from the specialist LVAD team at the Freeman Hospital.
“The team are like an extended family,” he said. “I have complete trust in them. They are experts in what they do and are always there when you need them. They’re only ever a phone call away.”
Andy Woods, Advanced Heart Failure Nurse Practitioner at the Freeman Hospital, added: “Living with an LVAD for 10 years is an extraordinary achievement, and Stuart’s story shows just how life-changing mechanical circulatory support can be. The device has enabled him to live as independently and normally as possible while awaiting a heart transplant, allowing him to remain active and continue doing the things he enjoys.
“On International Mechanical Circulatory Support Day, we want to celebrate patients like Stuart and recognise the dedication of the families and friends who support them. Their resilience and determination in overcoming challenges and adapting to living with an LVAD is truly inspiring.”
The Freeman Hospital is home to one of the UK’s leading advanced heart failure and mechanical circulatory support services, providing specialist care to patients from across the country.
International Mechanical Circulatory Support Day raises awareness of the life-changing impact of devices such as LVADs and celebrates the patients and healthcare teams who make this care possible.
