Heart Attack, Patient Story

Ramon Rinkin’s Journey to Heart Recovery: Naval Officer Survives Cardiac Arrest

My name is Ramon Rinkin. I am a husband, father, and active duty Chief Navy Yeoman. Although I have a family history of heart disease and live with high blood pressure, I never thought I would have a heart attack at the young age of 41. When I began experiencing indigestion and heartburn, I attributed these symptoms to stress. While getting ready for work one morning, I collapsed in the bathroom and went into cardiac arrest. My wife Melania performed CPR until paramedics arrived and brought me to St. Francis Hospital in Bartlett, TN. 

I coded multiple times and was in cardiogenic shock when I arrived at the hospital. Interventional cardiologist, Dr. Raj Dave inserted the Impella 2.5® to allow my heart to rest before placing stents. I was then airlifted to a nearby hospital in Memphis, TN. Days later, my heart function began to improve and the Impella® heart pump was removed. After two weeks in the hospital, I returned home. 

Today, I have returned to work and I am walking nine miles per week with Melania. I’m looking forward to coaching my kids in track and field, cooking BBQ, and being with my family for many years to come. 

Learn more about Impella® heart pumps

IMP-2335