Juan Sosa's Journey to Heart Recovery

My name is Juan Sosa and I am 58 years old. I’m a veteran, father, and retired carpenter from Brandon, FL. After being diagnosed with COVID-19, I was quarantining when I began experiencing chest pains after doing push-ups. When the pain became more severe, I went to the emergency room; this decision ultimately saved my life. Tests revealed I was having a massive heart attack and I was transported by ambulance to a hospital in Tampa, FL.

I arrived at the hospital in cardiac arrest and was immediately brought to the catheterization lab. My medical team performed CPR for over 20 minutes while Dr. Hoshedar Tamboli removed a blood clot and placed a stent. He then inserted the Impella CP® with SmartAssist® heart pump to give my heart a chance to rest and recover. After a few days, my heart function dramatically improved and Impella® was removed. Two weeks later, I was home with my family.

Today, I’m enjoying life with my wife, Sandra, and children and grandchildren. I’ve started exercising again and I enjoy working on small house projects. Without Impella, Dr. Tamboli, and my wonderful medical team, I would not be here today. I want people to know that if you have symptoms of heart disease, even if you think you’re in good health, to go get checked. It may save your life!