They say “to infinity and beyond,” but when you’re living with an LVAD, sometimes just making it to the next day is the mission.
I’ve been rocking this mechanical heart for over a decade now—ten years of beeps, battery swaps, emergency kits, and explaining to TSA agents what all the wires are about. After all that, I’ve earned my space ranger badge. 🧑🏾🚀💪🏾
But now I’m standing at a new launch pad. Do I stay on this course—destination therapy with my LVAD—or take a leap into the unknown and pursue a heart transplant?
🛰️ The Familiar Orbit
Living with an LVAD is not easy—but it’s predictable. I know what foods to eat, how to manage energy, what signs mean “Houston, we have a problem.” I’ve learned the rhythms, the routines, and how to keep myself in the best shape possible—LVAD and all.
I’m in control of my ship, even with a few dents and space dust on the armor.
🪐 A New Frontier
A heart transplant? That’s a whole new galaxy.
New medications. New complications. A “new normal” that no one can fully prepare for. It might mean more freedom—but also more unknowns. And let’s not ignore the gravity of it all: for me to get a transplant, someone else has to pass away.
That’s heavy. That’s real. That’s not lost on me.
Still, I wonder—if the opportunity came, would I strap in and hit ignition?
🧭 The Mission Dilemma
Both paths require courage. One is the steady orbit I’ve mastered. The other is uncharted space.
Either way, I’m flying this mission with faith, hope, and a whole lot of gratitude for how far I’ve already come. 🌌❤️
So I ask you…
What would you do?
Would you stay the course?
Or chart a new path to “Transplant and Beyond”?
Let us know. Join the conversation.
📧 Email: LVADTalk@gmail.com
📱 Text: 757-726-7250
📸 Instagram: @LVADTalk
🌐 Website: www.LVADTALK.com
We’d love to hear your thoughts. Your voice might help someone else navigating their own stars. 💫
Shawn Connors
Executive Producer/Host - Connors Studios
Meet Shawn Connors, a man who’s faced some tough health challenges. Born with a heart murmur, he had his first heart surgery at just three. But life threw him another curveball when he was 37, diagnosed with DIFIB.
Things got even worse when Shawn’s wife, diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, fell ill at 40. Shawn, determined to take care of her, was also battling his own health issues. It was clear that he needed an LVAD. Six months after the implant, Shawn’s wife sadly passed away, leaving him as the sole caregiver for their two elementary-aged children.
Despite the immense grief, Shawn found a way to channel his emotions into something positive. He started a podcast called LVAD Talk, where he interviews other LVADers, including heart transplant recipients. His videos and podcasts are available on YouTube and LVADTalk.com.
In addition to his podcast, Shawn is also the owner of Connors Studio, where he creates and specializes in portraiture and lifestyle photography.
A New Season, A New Look — Thank You for Supporting LVAD Talk
