A man who underwent open-heart surgery 71 years ago lived longer than any other patient who underwent complex surgery.
Originally from Rancho Santa Margarita, California, USA, Jim Ward was only 11 years old when he was put under the knife on February 19, 1952.
Jim, who had a very large heart before surgery, now lMost surviving patients from open-heart surgery (male)lived 70 years and 255 days after the operation.
Born with a narrowed pulmonary heart valve as a result of congenital heart disease, Jim had to undergo surgery because the condition was so severe.
“I was in the hospital for over a week,” Jim said.
“I wasn’t allowed to climb stairs, so I had to sleep in the living room for a while after I got home.”
He remembers going back to school just two months after the surgery and having very few restrictions.
“I don’t really remember any pain,” Jim said.
“After that, I don’t remember any restrictions other than ‘take it easy.’ We weren’t allowed to play Little League baseball until the next year.”
Some adaptations have allowed Jim to lead as successfully as others.
“I got a pacemaker in 2008 and have been on blood pressure medication for over 20 years.
Today, the gym has no restrictions and we are doing our best to stay active.
“I’ve lost weight and do a lot of exercise, mostly walking and hiking, but I also cycle and swim,” Jim said.
“I feel great and I consider myself in excellent health for my age.”
Jim says he and his family weren’t the only ones surprised by his record-breaking achievement.
His PCP and his cardiologist were also amazed by his record and proud to have helped him stay as healthy as I was.
For those suffering from heart disease, Jim offers a little piece of advice.
“Just enjoy life and keep both mind and body as active as possible,” he said.
“I am very honored to receive such an award.”
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