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

My name is Ramon Rinkin. I am 41 years old and 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 such a young age. 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.