Heart Patient Stories in New Jersey

We care for every heart.

At Hackensack Meridian Health, we ensure that each heart doesn't miss a beat. Our experts perform the most total cardiovascular procedures, and are recognized with more quality awards, than any other network in New Jersey. From award-winning cardiac and vascular surgeons and care teams, to advanced preventative screenings and rehabilitation, we're ready for every heart.

Read more about the many hearts we care for as our patients share their stories of survival, inspiration, and encouragement for others to be heart healthy.

Don Heintz standing in the street in Red Bank smiling.
Sports Exec Gets a Win After Shocking Heart Screening Result
A simple test—a CT calcium scoring scan—saves Don Hintze’s life just weeks before his daughter’s wedding.
John Sherrod smiling and wood working outside.
Colts Neck Realtor Overcomes Heart Arrhythmia
Colts Neck resident overcomes heart arrhythmia. Learn about atrial flutter treatment and find a cardiologist. Schedule a consultation today.
Jersey City Man’s Life Saved by Implanted Heart Device
Darrin Wilkins was experiencing advanced heart failure, but a life-saving heart device is giving him new hope and adding years back to his life.
Terri Apuzzu smiling outside on a sunny day.
Brick, NJ, Grandmother Thrives After Widow-maker Heart Attack
Terri Apuzzu didn’t experience the classic heart attack symptoms. But an EKG showed a severe blockage of the left anterior descending artery (LAD).
Sam Selvam
Heart-Stopping Saga Ends Happily for Westwood, NJ, Man
After several rounds of severe heart attack symptoms, Sam Selvam, a 50-year-old father of two, is saved by leading-edge cardiovascular technology.
Carlos Mercado holding a bouquet of flowers smiling.
Jersey City Man Back in the Gym After Angioplasty and Stenting
After a heart attack and heart disease, Carlos Mercardo’s cardiac procedures went smoothly with the help of a minimally invasive temporary heart pump.
Trista Harper and her family smiling, enjoying the park. Riding bikes, pushing the stroller, and swinging on the swings.
Toms River Woman Beats the Odds to Start Her Dream Family
Nurse Trista Harper didn’t let an initial episode of peripartum cardiomyopathy stop her from realizing her dream of three children.
Patient Dan Reiss, holding his dog, Jake, smiling outside.
Colts Neck, NJ, Recovers After “Widowmaker” Heart Attack
After experiencing a “widowmaker” heart attack, Dan Reiss had a multi-step medical journey in heart failure that required six procedures.
Tony Soto recovered after aortic dissection
Coordinated Care Saves Life of South Amboy Man After Dangerous Heart Condition
When Tony Soto faced a potentially fatal heart condition, coordinated care and quick action saved his life.
Denville, New Jersey, Father Receives Lifesaving Care After Life-threatening Aortic Dissection
Denville, New Jersey, Father Receives Lifesaving Care After Life-threatening Aortic Dissection
Bonit Sharma is grateful for the care he received at Hackensack University Medical Center for a life-threatening aortic dissection.
Kevin Jester
Cardiac Calcium Scan Saves One Man’s Life
Cardiac Calcium Scan: Learn how this life-saving procedure helped Kevin. Southern Ocean Medical Center offers heart care; call 800-822-8905.
Vincent Madgyesy
A Little Help From Friends
Bayshore Medical Center helped Vincent. Heart care services saved his life. Learn more about our cardiac care.

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