A 44-year-old husband and father who suffered a major heart attack earlier this year reunited with the medical team that helped save his life.
David Worsham received CPR from first responders and bystanders while en route to Sharp Grossmont Hospital. Once at the hospital, surgeons placed a temporary mini-heart pump to circulate oxygenated blood, allowing his heart to rest and recover.
The response included early recognition of symptoms, calling 911, CPR and coordinated care by an interdisciplinary team.
“David came in critically ill,” said Dr. Alexandra Kharazi, cardiothoracic surgeon at Sharp Grossmont Hospital Burr Heart and Vascular Center.
“He had suffered a massive heart attack and was in shock. His heart wasn’t pumping effectively, and multiple organ systems were starting to shut down. It was a life-threatening situation, but early recognition and fast coordination allowed us to act quickly.”
Worsham and his family reunited with the medical team Friday, Aug. 1 at Sharp Grossmont Hospital.
“We are grateful for everyone – from the nurses who are the boots-on-the-ground knowing what was going on, to the doctors who helped save his life, everyone communicated with one another, and the care was seamless,” said Heather Worsham, David’s wife. “None of us could have expected any of this. But we all came together as a family through this journey.”
According to the American Heart Association, the average age of a first heart attack is 65½ for men and 72 for women. However, studies show heart attack hospitalizations have become more common among people under age 55.
Sharp Grossmont Hospital Burr Heart and Vascular Center uses innovative procedures to treat life-threatening cardiovascular events such as heart attack and cardiac arrest in patients of all ages.
