Michael Goar’s Journey to Heart Recovery: Real Estate Agent Survives Health Scare

My name is Michael Goar. I have lived an active lifestyle all my life. I am an avid hunter, fisherman, and real estate agent in Lakeview, AR. Although I was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation several years ago, I was feeling healthy. When I began having dizzy spells and bouts of nausea, I made an appointment with my heart specialist at Arkansas Heart Hospital. Tests revealed I was born with an anomalous coronary artery that put me at risk for sudden cardiac death. Physicians told me I needed immediate surgery.

I was brought to the cardiovascular surgical suite where Kristofer Freeland, MD began to surgically repair my heart by relocating the anomalous artery. While in the operating room, I began to decompensate and changes to my heart rhythm caused me to go into cardiogenic shock. Dr. Freeland performed a double bypass operation and inserted the Impella 5.5® with SmartAssist® to provide hemodynamic support. After three days of support, my heart function began to improve and the Impella was weaned and explanted. I was able to walk out of the hospital with my native heart.

Today, I am walking two to three miles per day and spending time with my wife, Tammy. I’m looking forward to hunting and helping my clients find their dream homes. 

As with any medical treatment, individual results may vary. There are potential risks these risks need to be discussed with your doctor and recovery takes time. The success of this procedure depends on many factors, including your physical condition and your body’s ability to tolerate the procedure. Use care in the selection of your doctors and hospital, based on their skill and experience.