How I became Zapgirl

Days after my 28th Birthday, I survived a sudden death episode during cardiac testing. Two weeks later, on October 3rd, 1997, I became Zapgirl. I received my life-changing gift of an implanted cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). My doctors told me this new device was the best insurance policy against my own heart. So why the ICD?? I have an enlarged heart, rapid and lethal heart rhythms, a valve disorder, a slow heart rate and now a metal box in my chest to shock me back to life if needed. 

 

Being the recipient of such a precious gift is something that I don’t take lightly. I was given an extra life. In case I go into Sudden Cardiac Arrest, I don’t have to wait for someone to come rescue me with an AED (Automated External Defibrillator). I’ve got my own in my chest  But, if you’re reading this, without an ICD in your chest, and you go into Sudden Cardiac Arrest, you have to hope someone takes a chance and starts CPR on you, and uses an AED... that is if one is close by.