Brian’s Story (Heart Disease/Stroke)

Brian, age 60, grew up in Chicago and started smoking cigarettes at age 8 because he thought it was cool. Although Brian’s parents found out he was smoking at age 12, he continued sneaking cigarettes and was smoking half a pack of cigarettes per day by the time he reached eighth grade. Brian’s parents smoked, and he recalls that everyone around him smoked. “Smoking had become ingrained in my mind,” he said.

Brian joined the Air Force at age 19, because pursuing a military career was important to him. Although he enjoyed his job, he had many responsibilities. As a result, Brian struggled with job stress and often smoked to cope.

One day, while stationed in England, Brian had severe chest pains while walking at work. “I was out of breath and sweating, and the pain got worse,” he said. Suddenly, he collapsed. Brian was having a heart attack at age 35.

Over the years, Brian’s heart problems worsened. He had several surgeries, including one in which a defibrillator—a device that helps regulate abnormal heartbeats—was put in his chest. Eventually, Brian’s heart became so damaged that he needed a heart transplant. It wasn’t until he quit smoking that Brian was eligible to receive a donated heart.

Brian is extremely grateful for his new heart and glad that he quit smoking for good. “Every day is a gift to spend time with my wife and grandkids,” he said.

More About Brian

Biography

• Brian’s Biography

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• Brian’s Tip [PDF – 645K]
• En Español:
  El consejo de Brian [PDF – 313K]