A cardiac resynchronization therapy - defibrillator (CRT-D) is helping Rajesh keep her socially active

I am Rajesh and I am 59 years old. I live in Ghaziabad with my son Puneet. Over the past few years, I experienced episodes of breathlessness even while carrying out my routine activities. Since I had already crossed 55 years of age, I assumed it to be a sign of aging and so started taking rest in between activities. I stopped participating in a lot of social events, but my condition just kept deteriorating. Now the breathlessness became more worrisome as I also had a few fainting episodes. After intensive check-up, the doctor indicated that I had a weak heart that was working to only 25% of its capacity and so I was recommended a Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy-Defibrillator (CRT-D) implant.

Initially my son Puneet was not convinced about the line of treatment and was reluctant to take it up. Moreover the therapy was expensive and was a little out of our reach. However, we went for a second opinion at other hospital and there again the doctor recommended the same line of treatment.

"We then consulted a Healthy Heart for All (HHFA) counselor who helped us out by answering all our queries about the therapy and clarifying all our concerns and worries. Thanks to HHFA program I could avail a loan through third party financing. Within the next three days, I had the CRT-D device implanted and now I am living a very comfortable life. I am now able to travel without any hassle and actively take part in all social gatherings without any fear in my mind. The device has given me a new lease of life and I feel thankful to have received this therapy that helps me to live a happier, fuller life" said Rajesh Jhari.