One thing about me and my LVAD… we will be outside!
On July 18, 2025, I found myself exactly where I love to be — in the mix, in the moment, and surrounded by hip hop greatness. I had the chance to attend the Masters of the Mic Tour — and for a lifelong fan like me, this wasn’t just a concert. This was a celebration of the soundtrack of my life. A reminder that no matter the challenges I’ve faced — from heart failure to living with an LVAD — I’m still here, still moving, and still soaking up every moment.
And the highlight?
Kicked it old school with a LEGEND — Eric Sermon of EPMD 🙌🏾💯
Y’all, the energy was electric. From Arrested Development and MC Lyte to Dougie Fresh and Slick Rick, these artists weren’t just performing — they were passing the torch to a new generation while proving the OGs still got it.
When I first got my LVAD in 2015, I didn’t know if I’d ever be back outside like this again. I had just become a widower. I was raising two young kids. And I was trying to figure out what my new “normal” looked like. But this journey has taught me that normal is whatever you make it.
Being outside, living my life, and meeting icons like Eric Sermon? That’s not just cool — it’s healing.
This post is the first in a photo series I’ll be sharing over the next few days. These aren’t just celebrity selfies — they’re proof of life. Proof that the LVAD didn’t end my story. It added new chapters.
If you’re new here:
Welcome to LVADTalk.com, where we keep it real about life with a left ventricular assist device. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, survivor, or just curious — this is a space for community, truth, and motivation.
👉🏾 Make sure to visit our YouTube channel for vlogs, interviews, and real conversations about living with heart failure and thriving with technology.
Stay tuned — more selfies from this legendary night are coming soon.
Because one thing about me and my LVAD…
We will ALWAYS be outside.
✊🏾💚
—Shawn Connors
Founder, LVAD Talk
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.
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