Brandy Parker

My name is Brandy Parker, and I was diagnosed with Restrictive Cardiomyopathy in August of 2008. I was in total shock, but they were able to put me on medicine that took care of my symptoms. This was able to keep me out of the hospital for a year.

By August of 2009, I was worse and my Doctor decided that I needed to start seeing a Heart Failure doctor. I was referred to Dr. Kar at St. Lukes Episopal Hospital. He was and is fantastic. He put in a ICD in September of 2009.

This along with my medicine got me another year, and then in November of 2010, We made the decision to go ahead and be put on the Heart Transplant List.

This was extremely scary, you never know when that call is going to come, so you are kinda on hold from regular life. I am married with 2 children and it was hard for them as well.
I had to wait a total of 8 1/2 months. I was very lucky!!! I did not have to wait as long as some of the other patients have to wait. I felt like it was forever, but looking back it was not that long at all!!
I got my call on July 21st, and was transplanted early the morning of July 22nd.

My life since the Transplant has been phenominal!! I can do all of the things that I have wanted to do for the past years that I have been sick. It is such a different life living and not worrying about breathing, or if you have to walk.

I would not have had this chance if it had not been for my ANGEL, my donor. I have not met or talked to my donor family, but I hope to have the chance one day. Also Dr. Kar and Dr. Gregoric, and all of the staff at the hospital are so wonderful. I hope that they know how much they are appreciated!