CARROLL, Ohio — Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer in the U.S. each year, according to the CDC, and in light of American Heart Month, one Ohio nurse shares her story of helping heart patients in a unique way that many others can't.
What You Need To Know
- Cardiovascular disease is the leading killer in the US each year, according to the CDC
- A young nurse shares her story of surviving cardiac arrest and her message to others
- To get CPR certified, go to the American Heart Association
Leah Schmidt is a 33-year-old woman, enjoying the life she and her husband ben have built together — a life that nearly got taken away from her a couple of years ago.
"I knew something was up, but I didn't know quite how bad,” said Leah Schmidt, a cardiac arrest survivor.
She began noticing problems like feeling extremely tired while exercising with random bouts of a racing heart.
"I would be at work and sitting and my heart rate would go up to 135, 145,” said Leah.
It escalated into something worse. She'll never forget the day: Nov. 6, 2021.
"I was out to dinner, and my husband said I looked at him, and I said 'I don't feel so good',” said Leah. “I fell over onto the table kinda like they do in the movies. I had no pulse."
Leah says she had gone into cardiac arrest and her husband didn't panic. He rallied others for help and rolled up his sleeves and got to work.
“He (My husband) started CPR on me, and some other people came to help him. That’s what saved my life: others willing to help and their quick response,” said Leah.
She was taken to Mount Carmel East, to the very same room where she, as a nurse, worked to help save heart patients.
Now she’s sharing her experience with her patients and every year she takes part in the Central Ohio Heart Walk hoping to inspire others.
"If my story can teach you anything, it would be to listen to the warning signs,” said Leah. “Your gut is never wrong. Definitely listen to yourself and take care of yourself.”
And for Leah, the cardiac arrest gave her a different outlook on life.
"I would say it makes me very grateful,” said Leah. “I have a very renewed interest and lease on life. I beat cardiac arrest at a young age, and I just feel like I'm here for a reason. I want to get the most out of life that I can. I think it's kinda a miracle and a blessing."
If you're experiencing sudden spikes in your heart rate, significant shortness of breath, or exercise intolerance, Dr. Adam Heringhaus at Mount Carmel East recommends getting checked out. Those are the early signs of a cardiac arrest.
Anyone interested in getting CPR certified can sign up with the American Heart Association.