Active Father of Five and Waterman Back on the Water Following Heart Attack 

Gregg Okamoto is a husband, father, and 28-year police officer from Maui, Hawaii. He is an avid waterman and community volunteer who is accustomed to an active lifestyle. On August 31, 2024 at the age of 52, while training for the Molokai Hoe canoe race with his team, Gregg began experiencing shortness of breath after coming to shore. He initially attributed the symptoms to being out of shape but when he couldn't catch his breath, Gregg asked his teammates to call 911. As paramedics arrived, the chest pains began and intensified quickly.

Gregg was rushed to Maui Memorial Medical Center where Dr. Jason Call and the cardiac team were waiting for him. Dr. Call identified a blockage in the left anterior descending artery and placed a stent. He then implanted the Impella CP heart pump to allow Gregg’s heart to rest. After one day of support, his heart function improved and Impella was weaned and removed.

Gregg returned home to his wife and five children just five days after entering the hospital. Today, he is back to work, paddling and coaching both youth and adults, with normal heart function. He is grateful for the care he received from the cardiac team and hospital staff and the loving support of his family and friends and extended ohana.

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.