In episode #009 of the Life After Cardiac Arrest podcast, Paul talks with cardiac arrest survivor Joanna Balgarnie.
Joanna’s life as a military wife seems to be coming to calmer times as she and her family return to the UK after an extended period abroad. However, things don’t go to plan when she has an unexpected and sudden cardiac arrest whilst sharing a bed with her daughter in a strangers house.
Joanna talks openly about the event, the impact it has had on her and her families life and how she has overcome the problems that have been thrown at her since.
She talks about how she has adapted to the multiple ICD shocks and loss of her driving license including moving house, changing job and utilising the governments Access to Work scheme.
Be aware that this episode gets quite emotional at times and the subject of suicide is touched upon, if you feel in need of someone to talk to please call the Samaritans on 116 123.
Available to listen on the links below or Spotify, Apple , Google and your favourite podcast player.
Presented by Paul Swindell and edited by Matt Nielson. Recorded June 2019
After our first meet-up in February 2015, I realised I was not alone. It was the first time since my cardiac arrest the previous year that I had spoken face-to-face with someone who had experienced what I had. This was also true for my wife, who also happened to be my lifesaver. From that meet-up, the idea of SCA UK was born. Since then, we have achieved a considerable amount, primarily providing information, resources and support to others in a similar situation but also raising the profile of survivorship and the need for better post-discharge care. We are starting to get traction in this, and with the formation of the charity, I genuinely believe we have a bright future ahead and will make a significant difference in the lives of many who join our ranks.