Victoria Thomas experienced a sudden cardiac arrest during a rigorous workout session at the gym. The 35-year-old accountant, who had no prior history of heart issues, collapsed on the floor, prompting an ambulance response. Despite initial CPR efforts, her heart remained unresponsive, raising concerns of permanent damage.
Victoria vividly recalls the out-of-body experience she had during the cardiac arrest, describing a surreal moment of seeing herself from above. Miraculously, after 17 minutes, her heart started beating again, leading to a three-day coma at Bristol Royal Infirmary. Doctors implanted a defibrillator to prevent future episodes.
Further health complications arose when Victoria discovered she had Danon disease during her pregnancy, a rare genetic disorder impacting heart function. Despite the challenges, she welcomed her son Tommy in an emergency caesarean and navigated recurrent cardiac arrests with the support of her defibrillator.
As her condition deteriorated post-pregnancy, Victoria faced end-stage heart failure, leaving her with limited time. Placed on the urgent donor register, she endured several disappointments before finally receiving a suitable heart transplant in April 2023 at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham.
Now recovered, Victoria has resumed her active lifestyle, participating in various sports and preparing for the World Transplant Games. Her son Tommy, now three, has been cleared of Danon disease, bringing relief to the family. Victoria expresses deep gratitude to her donor’s family for the second chance at life and motherhood she has been given.