Welcome to "A Big Heart," the podcast that shares inspiring stories of resilience, courage, and the power of the human spirit. In each episode, we dive deep into the lives of individuals who have faced incredible challenges and emerged stronger than ever. Join us as we explore the transformative journey of Tamar Gevorkian, a true embodiment of courage and compassion. In this episode, we have the honor of sitting down with Tamar Gevorkian, a remarkable individual who defied all odds in her battle against Shones Complex, an exceedingly rare heart disease. Tamar's journey began just six months after her birth when she was diagnosed with this complex condition. Despite the daunting prognosis, Tamar's indomitable spirit and unwavering determination led her through a myriad of setbacks and health scares. Tamar's journey took an incredible turn, shifting from a patient to a beacon of hope. Now a dedicated nurse, she devotes her life to caring for young patients who, like her, are facing challenging health conditions. Tamar's unique perspective, having experienced the struggles of a patient firsthand, allows her to connect with her patients on a level that goes beyond medical expertise. Her story is not only one of survival but of transformation, as she uses her experiences to positively impact the lives of those in her care. Join us as we delve into Tamar's incredible narrative of overcoming adversity, finding purpose in pain, and cultivating a big heart filled with empathy and compassion. Through her story, we uncover the strength that resides within us all and the profound impact a single individual can have on the world. "A Big Heart" invites you to share in Tamar Gevorkian's journey and reflect on the power of the human spirit to rise above life's challenges. Tune in to this episode to witness the triumph of resilience and the embodiment of a heart that has grown even bigger through the trials it has endured. Subscribe now to "A Big Heart" and be inspired by stories that remind us all that, no matter the odds, the human spirit is capable of remarkable transformation and boundless compassion. Click the link to order your copy of my memoir, A Big Heart! https://www.abigheartbook.com/product... Click the link to order your A Big Heart shirt! https://www.abigheartbook.com/product... Click the link to donate to In A Heartbeat and HELP US SAVE LIVES! https://inaheartbeat.networkforgood.c... Click the link to book Mike to speak at your next event! https://www.abigheartbook.com/contact Disclaimer I am not a medical professional. You should always consult with your physician about your heart disease. This is just my story that I am sharing from my personal experience.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Colby Salerno, an extraordinary individual who has not only overcome personal health challenges but is also on the path to becoming a renowned cardiologist. Dr. Colby Salerno's journey began in middle school when he was diagnosed with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, a rare heart condition that threatened to restrict his dreams and passions. Against all odds, Colby refused to let his diagnosis define him and embarked on an inspiring quest to reclaim his life. Through raw and candid conversations, Dr. Colby Salerno takes us on an emotional rollercoaster as he shares the highs and lows of his battle with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. From the initial shock of diagnosis to the arduous decision of receiving a life-saving heart transplant, Colby's determination and unwavering positivity shine through every step of the way. Discover how Colby's personal experiences as a patient have influenced his career path, propelling him to pursue his passion for cardiology and make a difference in the lives of others. Dr. Salerno is also the co-host of Both Sides of the Stethoscope, a podcast that discusses the unique view of medicine from both the perspective of physicians as well as the perspective as patients. Click the link to order your copy of my memoir, A Big Heart! https://www.abigheartbook.com/product... Click the link to order your A Big Heart shirt! https://www.abigheartbook.com/product... Click the link to donate to In A Heartbeat and HELP US SAVE LIVES! https://inaheartbeat.networkforgood.c... Click the link to book Mike to speak at your next event! https://www.abigheartbook.com/contact Disclaimer I am not a medical professional. You should always consult with your physician about your heart disease. This is just my story that I am sharing from my personal experience.

In the compelling podcast series "A Big Heart," join us as we dive into the extraordinary story of Julieta Valdes and her sister Patty Valdes. In one fateful moment, Julieta's life changed forever when she suffered a sudden cardiac arrest while working out alongside Patty on that unforgettable day, May 3, 2020. In this episode, we sit down with Julieta and Patty to explore the depths of their experience, from the life Julieta led before the sudden cardiac arrest to the physical and emotional obstacles she has faced on her road to recovery. As we navigate through their inspiring journey, we gain a profound understanding of the human spirit's resilience and the power of love and support in the face of adversity. Julieta's sudden cardiac arrest not only challenged her physically but also tested the strength and endurance of Patty, who bravely stood by her sister's side. We delve into the complexities of the trauma Patty endured as she watched her beloved sister fight for her life, exploring the emotions, challenges, and unwavering determination that propelled her forward. Throughout the conversation, we explore the incredible bond shared between Julieta and Patty, highlighting the unconditional love and unwavering support that has served as their foundation. Their story serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human heart and the remarkable strength that lies within each of us. Join us on "A Big Heart" as we embark on this poignant exploration of resilience, hope, and the power of familial love. Be inspired by Julieta and Patty's incredible journey as they overcome adversity, face their fears, and emerge stronger than ever. Through their story, we learn valuable lessons about the importance of cherishing each day and appreciating the profound impact we can have on one another's lives. Click the link to order your copy of my memoir, A Big Heart! https://www.abigheartbook.com/product-page/a-big-heart Click the link to order your A Big Heart shirt! https://www.abigheartbook.com/product-page/unisex-t-shirt Click the link to donate to In A Heartbeat and HELP US SAVE LIVES! https://inaheartbeat.networkforgood.com/projects/60391-in-a-heartbeat-annual-fund Click the link to book Mike to speak at your next event! https://www.abigheartbook.com/contact *Disclaimer* I am not a medical professional. You should always consult with your physician about your heart disease. This is just my story that I am sharing from my personal experience.

When I was 17 years old, I went into sudden cardiac arrest and almost died. Sudden cardiac arrest is an abnormal rhythm with the heart also known as an arrhythmia where the heart suddenly stops working. Immediate CPR and the quick shock from AED are crucial to someone surviving sudden cardiac arrest. I did not receive CPR right away and there was no AED on site in the building where I suffered my sudden cardiac arrest. When 9-1-1 was called, there was a volunteer EMT named Bob in the building next door working his full-time job. His pager went off and he recognized the address so he came over to where I was and started performing CPR. He saved my life, saved my brain, and kept me alive until the ambulance showed up with a defibrillator. In this video, Bob and I talk about the day that he SAVED MY LIFE! Click the link to order your copy of my memoir, A Big Heart! https://www.abigheartbook.com/product-page/a-big-heart Click the link to order your A Big Heart shirt! https://www.abigheartbook.com/product-page/unisex-t-shirt Click the link to donate to In A Heartbeat and HELP US SAVE LIVES! https://inaheartbeat.networkforgood.com/projects/60391-in-a-heartbeat-annual-fund Click the link to book Mike to speak at your next event! https://www.abigheartbook.com/contact *Disclaimer* I am not a medical professional. You should always consult with your physician about your heart disease. This is just my story that I am sharing from my personal experience.

After surviving sudden cardiac arrest and being diagnosed with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy I was afraid to exercise. Prior to surviving cardiac arrest and being diagnosed with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, I was training to be a college basketball player. I was doing intense workouts and I was really fit. I didn’t really worry about my diet because I was in high school and exercising so much. After being diagnosed with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, I didn’t want to do anything to make my body go into sudden cardiac arrest again. I was afraid to work out. I was afraid to elevate my heart rate. I was afraid to do anything! I did not change my diet. Therefore, I started to gain weight which let to self-confidence issues. In this video I talked about how I used cardiac rehabilitation to learn my body and learn how to exercise and how I do weight training while living with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Click the link to order your copy of my memoir, A Big Heart! https://www.abigheartbook.com/product-page/a-big-heart Click the link to order your A Big Heart shirt! https://www.abigheartbook.com/product-page/unisex-t-shirt Click the link to donate to In A Heartbeat and HELP US SAVE LIVES! https://inaheartbeat.networkforgood.com/projects/60391-in-a-heartbeat-annual-fund Click the link to book Mike to speak at your next event! https://www.abigheartbook.com/contact *Disclaimer* I am not a medical professional. You should always consult with your physician about your heart disease. This is just my story that I am sharing from my personal experience.

After surviving sudden cardiac arrest and being diagnosed with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy I was afraid to exercise. Prior to surviving cardiac arrest and being diagnosed with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, I was training to be a college basketball player. I was doing intense workouts and I was really fit. I didn’t really worry about my diet because I was in high school and exercising so much. After being diagnosed with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, I didn’t want to do anything to make my body go into sudden cardiac arrest again. I was afraid to work out. I was afraid to elevate my heart rate. I was afraid to do anything! I did not change my diet. Therefore, I started to gain weight which let to self-confidence issues. In this video I talked about how I used cardiac rehabilitation to learn my body and learn how to exercise and how I do cardio training while living with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Click the link to order your copy of my memoir, A Big Heart! https://www.abigheartbook.com/product-page/a-big-heart Click the link to order your A Big Heart shirt! https://www.abigheartbook.com/product-page/unisex-t-shirt Click the link to donate to In A Heartbeat and HELP US SAVE LIVES! https://inaheartbeat.networkforgood.com/projects/60391-in-a-heartbeat-annual-fund Click the link to book Mike to speak at your next event! https://www.abigheartbook.com/contact *Disclaimer* I am not a medical professional. You should always consult with your physician about your heart disease. This is just my story that I am sharing from my personal experience.

When I was 17 years old, I went into sudden cardiac arrest and almost died. Sudden cardiac arrest is an abnormal rhythm with the heart also known as an arrhythmia where the heart suddenly stops working. Immediate CPR and the quick shock from AED are crucial to someone surviving sudden cardiac arrest. I did not receive CPR right away and there was no AED on site in the building where I suffered my sudden cardiac arrest, so doctors told me my chances of survival were ONE in a MILLION. I was later diagnosed with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy also known as HCM. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy is excessive thickening of the heart muscle and can affect everyone differently. Doctors prescribed a beta blocker called Nadolol and surgically placed an Implanted Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD). During my time in the hospital I was very anxious. This was new for my family and me. I had a lot of questions, but I was under care 24 hours a day. Any time I had a question a nurse or a doctor would answer them and make me feel better. When I finally was discharged, I felt so relieved and excited, but when I got home, I was scared. I was afraid that I was going to go into sudden cardiac arrest again and die in my sleep! Click the link to order your copy of my memoir, A Big Heart! https://www.abigheartbook.com/product-page/a-big-heart Click the link to order your A Big Heart shirt! https://www.abigheartbook.com/product-page/unisex-t-shirt Click the link to donate to In A Heartbeat and HELP US SAVE LIVES! https://inaheartbeat.networkforgood.com/projects/60391-in-a-heartbeat-annual-fund Click the link to book Mike to speak at your next event! https://www.abigheartbook.com/contact

After being diagnosed with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), doctors surgically placed an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) into my chest. They told me that the battery on the device would last 7-8 years. Eight years later, I was 25 years old and an assistant basketball coach at Quinnipiac University, a Division 1 school in CT. The battery on my Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) was running low and it was time for a replacement. I went in for surgery in early August and it did not go as planned. I had another surgery the next day that went well and they sent me home. Little did they know I had contracted a bacterial infection during surgery. Weeks later I had to have my Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) completely removed which resulted in life saving open heart surgery. Click the link to order your copy of my memoir, A Big Heart! https://www.abigheartbook.com/product-page/a-big-heart Click the link to order your A Big Heart shirt! https://www.abigheartbook.com/product-page/unisex-t-shirt Click the link to donate to In A Heartbeat and HELP US SAVE LIVES! https://inaheartbeat.networkforgood.com/projects/60391-in-a-heartbeat-annual-fund Click the link to book Mike to speak at your next event! https://www.abigheartbook.com/contact

Following my sudden cardiac arrest, I was diagnosed with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM). Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a condition where the heart muscle becomes abnormally thick. It affects 1 in 200-500 people of all ages. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the leading cause of death among young student-athletes. There currently is no cure for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) but it can be managed with medication and an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD). According to the American Heart Association, an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) is a device placed under the skin that keeps track of your heart rate. It is battery powered. The wires connect the Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) to your heart. If an abnormal heart rhythm is detected the device will deliver an electric shock to restore a normal heartbeat if your heart is beating chaotically and much too fast. Learning I had to have this device placed was very scary for my family and me but doctors explained to us that it would keep me safe if I go into sudden cardiac arrest again. Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs) are crucial in allowing Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) and heart disease patients live a long and normal life. Click the link to order your copy of my memoir, A Big Heart! https://www.abigheartbook.com/product-page/a-big-heart Click the link to order your A Big Heart shirt! https://www.abigheartbook.com/product-page/unisex-t-shirt Click the link to donate to In A Heartbeat and HELP US SAVE LIVES! https://inaheartbeat.networkforgood.com/projects/60391-in-a-heartbeat-annual-fund Click the link to book Mike to speak at your next event! https://www.abigheartbook.com/contact