How a Mechanical Pump Helped a New Jersey Man's Heart Heal

At 44 years old, Nigel Griffin felt worn down by a sudden heart failure diagnosis. He was prepared to refuse life-saving surgery. Then, a friend gave him some advice: "At some point in your life, you have to stop living for yourself and start living for other people."

Nigel thought of his friends' children, who lovingly know him as "Uncle Nigel,” and he decided to fight.

A Middle-of-the-Night Emergency 

Nigel's health problems began in 2018. At first, he dismissed his subtle symptoms as part of his demanding job. But his condition was serious, and he was referred to the Robert Berkowitz Heart Failure Program at Hackensack University Medical Center.

As his heart failure progressed, Nigel took a life-threatening turn. He required an emergency procedure in the middle of the night. Cardiac surgeon George Batsides, M.D., implanted a device called an Impella to keep his heart pumping.

The device stabilized Nigel, but he needed a more permanent solution: a Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD). An LVAD is a powerful mechanical pump. Surgeons implant it to take over the work of the heart's failing main chamber. Nigel was hesitant, but he agreed to the procedure.

Healing the Heart 

While the LVAD allowed Nigel's heart muscle to rest, his cardiology team lead by Kanika Mody, M.D. and Scott Stewart, DNP, started him on a treatment plan called guideline-directed medical therapy. This involves using a precise combination of medications to improve the heart's structure and function. Nigel committed to the plan, managing his diet, lifestyle and medications with incredible dedication.

"Nigel's success is a testament to what's possible when you combine advanced technology with a dedicated patient and a comprehensive medical strategy," says Dr. Mody. "The LVAD gave his heart a much-needed rest, but the real magic happened through a combination of aggressive, guideline-directed medical therapy and Nigel's own commitment to his health. It was a true team effort."

The care team also focuses on the emotional weight of a heart failure diagnosis. To help patients connect, the team created support events like "LVADsgiving”.Meeting other patients inspired Nigel, and he became a patient advocate himself.

A Rare LVAD Deactivation 

The combination of mechanical support, medication and hard work led to news Nigel never expected: his heart was healing.

In a rare success story, Nigel recently became only the second patient at the center to have his LVAD successfully deactivated. Dr. Batsides, the same surgeon who saved him years earlier, safely decommissioned the device.

"Reaching a point where a patient no longer relies on an LVAD because their own heart has recovered is the ultimate goal. It's the home run for us," says Dr. Batsides. "This is an incredible outcome that speaks to the strength of our program and, most importantly, to Nigel's resilience. We were more than happy to help him get his life back."

Now 51, Nigel has a new perspective on life and a desire to help others.

"I feel like I wouldn't be where I am without the amazing heart center staff," Nigel says. "Not just the doctors, but everyone that works in that building. That entire team."

Next Steps & Resources 

• Meet our sources: George Batsides, M.D., Kanika Mody, M.D., and Scott Stewart, DNP
• Learn more about heart failure care and the Robert Berkowitz Heart Failure Program at Hackensack Meridian Health.