Ten years later in 1994, I was living in California, very happily married, and in great physical shape. Then my world changed dramatically -- I had cardiac arrest while at work, was given CPR, and rushed to the hospital by ambulance.

But I had been without oxygen to the brain and was in a coma for 18 hours. despite the poor prognosis, I surprised everyone by talking as soon as I woke up. Then two days later, I again had cardiac arrest and the doctors decided to implant a defibrillator (ICD). This medical device has become my freedom and my savior. How could this happen to me? The cause does not appear genetic, but we are not yet sure of that. However, I have a very positive attitude that some day we will solve this puzzle. I am grateful for the support of my wonderful husband and family, and to the CARE foundation for providing me with information and helping to expand my network of friends, as shown in this picture.

Maria Strnad
Twenty-seven years old, six months pregnant and feeling great -- who would have thought that a case of the flu would wreak such havoc with my life? While ill with the flu, I developed an irregular heart beat. Medication seemed to normalize this ventricular tachycardia. Of course we hoped this was an isolated event. Four months after delivering my baby, tests indicated that I should be given beta-blockers. When this did not control my irregular heartbeat, I was hospitalized and placed on anti-arrhythmic medication. Ironically, I felt absolutely fine. This was contrary to what the tests showed and what the physicians said. All I knew was this was getting far more complicated and serious than I ever imagined and all I wanted to do was enjoy my healthy little girl.

Unfortunately, the anti-arrhythmics didn't work as expected and a laser ablation was recommended. This too was not entirely successful, resulting in an implanted defibrillator. We hoped the ICD would be a precautionary measure, and that it has proved its worthiness. Just two weeks after getting the device, I received over 50 shocks in a 20-minute period. Terrifying as this was, I'm happy to say that my condition has stabilized. Thanks to my supportive family, friends, and doctors, I look forward to the arrival of our second child in May.

Kelly Perkins
Five years age I was a busy real estate appeaser, celebrating five years of a happy marriage to Craig. We were backpacking in Europe and looking forward to having a family and raising children on our own. Upon our return, I noticed my heart pounding when I lay down in bed at night. My doctor thought it was anxiety. The symptoms recurred and a cardiologist admitted me to the hospital where I was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, I was airlifted to the Good Samaritan Hospital in Los Angeles where I became a patient of Dr. David Cannom. After a Series of tests and procedures, it was decided to implant a defibrillator to prevent any fatal arrhythmias, The AICD was my safety net and my friend But my heart condition deteriorated and I finally received a heart transplant in 1995.

I am fully aware that I still have a chronic condition, and despite the regimen of pills my life is very good. I was able to return to my favorite activity -- backpacking. Within 10 months of my transplant, I became the first recorded heart transplant recipient to hike to the top of Half Dome in Yosemite. The key to coping with such trauma is support - of friends, my doctors, the hospital support groups. Most of all, my husband and family, who stayed and prayed with me throughout this ordeal.

Ruth Krewnko
I have a wonderful life with a loving husband and two boys, ages seven and three. I am grateful for the chance to raise all three of them. My own Mother was unable to raise her nine children due to her cardiac problems and we were all put in foster homes. I was lucky to be adopted by a loving family -- but I do want to be around for my boys. My symptoms began when my oldest son was born, and I was diagnosed with cardiomyopthy and ventricular arrhythmias that were potentially life threatening. It was a scary and lonely time for me, with an uncertain future. However, as time went by I felt so well that we decided to have our second son four years later. After his birth the arrhythmia problem reappeared. This time the doctors decided on new medication and an implanted defibrillator.

I deeply appreciate the love and support of my family and friends, and have great admiration for my doctors and their staff. I have made some wonderful new girlfriends like myself, who understand first-hand the annoyance of my newest "figure flaw." When I count my blessings, I take nothing for granted; I appreciate the gift of life with my family. Above all I respect my doctors, their knowledge and the advancements in technology that make smaller devices all the time. And thanks to CARE for funding research!