Surfer’s Heart Recovers after Impella 5.5® with SmartAssist® Support

Morgan DuPont, works as a hotel sales associate in Maui and has always lived an active lifestyle. He taught himself to surf at the age of eight and has since surfed 30-foot waves. On July 19, 2024, Morgan awoke in the middle of the night to crushing chest pain. He drove himself to the Maui Memorial Medical Center emergency room where medical staff performed an EKG and identified abnormalities. Morgan's condition quickly became more severe as his blood pressure dropped and he developed a fever.

Dr. Michael Shea and his team recognized Morgan was in cardiogenic shock likely due to acute myocarditis. Dr. Michael Firstenberg implanted the Impella 5.5 heart pump to support his weak heart and allow it to rest. Morgan was then transported to a facility in Los Angeles for a potential heart transplant. After twelve days of support, however, Morgan's heart function recovered and Impella was weaned and removed. He returned home to his family and friends and continues to regain his strength.

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.