Embracing Life, Writing Your Heart Health Story on Your Terms — Andrea’s Story
Read Andrea's story below.
Lean in—knowledge is really powerful. It's so easy to sit in fear versus go get answers that you really need for yourself. You might be surprised at what you can do.
Advances in medical technology can give clinicians more complete information and offer patients a more seamless experience. Zio ECG monitors are designed to fit into patients’ daily life. The end-to-end Zio service provides high-quality, accurate data that clinicians can use to help them make the right diagnosis the first time. For patients like Andrea, who have faced uncertainty about their heart health, the opportunity to learn more about what may be happening can make a difference, helping them move forward in their health journey with clarity and confidence.
Early Warnings: A Family Legacy of Heart Health Issues
Andrea's journey into the realm of heart health began in the shadow of a family tragedy. Losing her father to a heart attack, when she was just 11 years old, imprinted the importance of cardiac care deep within her. Later in life, Andrea faced her own cardiac challenges. As a mother of eight and an advocate for a healthy, active lifestyle – values instilled by her father – Andrea's commitment to her health was unwavering.
Yet, her body signaled that something was amiss, leading her down the path of medical exploration.
One day when Andrea was in her early 50s — right around her father’s age when he had his heart attack — she felt her heart wasn’t feeling quite right during a step exercise class.
After undergoing a series of stress tests, echocardiograms and a coronary scan, the initial phase of Andrea's journey was marked by frustration with traditional heart monitoring methods when her physician told her she needed to wear a Holter monitor— a bulky wired device worn for one to two days.
Andrea hated it. The cumbersome nature of the Holter monitor interfered with her active lifestyle, making her everyday activities a struggle. Eventually, Andrea learned she had premature ventricular contractions (PVCs - or extra heartbeats). This early warning made it possible to manage her PVCs with medication and monitoring over the years, but she knew she’d have to stay alert.
The Next Chapter of Her Heart Story – A New Hope
Andrea started feeling an increase in PVCs. The recommendation for a Zio ECG monitoring device by Andrea's cardiologist marked a turning point. Unlike previous devices, The Zio ECG monitor offered a seamless, comfortable monitoring experience. Andrea's initial apprehension was quickly replaced by relief and gratitude. The device's ease of use and minimal impact on daily life enabled her to continue her active routine.
After reviewing the heart rhythm data collected through the Zio service, Andrea’s physician informed her that she is a candidate for an ablation in the left ventricle. For now, with her physician’s guidance, she is holding off on this intervention until her condition progresses.
Leaning into Life with Knowledge and Courage
As Andrea reflects on her journey, she recognizes how today’s medical technology can play a meaningful role in understanding heart rhythm concerns. Andrea's story is more than a personal narrative. It’s an example of how cardiac monitoring can provide information that supports patients and clinicians as they navigate next steps in care.
Andrea often says how lucky she is to have access to solutions like the Zio service. She’s also lucky to count her son as one of her best friends— who happens to work at iRhythm, the maker of the very monitor Andrea wore. Her son’s encouragement helped Andrea open her mind to the possibility of new solutions for their family’s heart health story.
Andrea's message to others facing similar fears is clear: "Lean in—knowledge is really powerful. It's so easy to sit in fear versus go get answers that you really need for yourself. You might be surprised at what you can do." In the heart of this message lies the essence of Andrea's story—a journey of courage, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of a life lived fully, with heart.
We believe your story matters.
Individual results may vary. Patient testimonials reflect personal experiences and may not represent typical outcomes. This service may not be appropriate for every patient. Please consult a healthcare professional for advice specific to your medical condition.
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