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George MacKey's Story I developed heart disease in 1998. After six months I was able to return to work. A pacemaker helped me lead a reasonably normal life, until I had a severe heart attack in June 2002. I suffered a cardiac arrest, a stroke and several bouts of acute respiratory failure. Fortunately the stroke caused no permanent damage. This was a very stressful period for my family. Our elder daughter planned to marry in August. My consultant would not allow me to attend the service. The hospital was wonderful. The wedding took place in the hospital chapel. I was able to attend and give my daughter "away". A few days later I was implanted with a bi-ventricular pacemaker and defibrillator. My condition improved sufficiently for me to go home. After a few weeks my breathing deteriorated, I was admitted to BCH with acute respiratory failure. My consultant decided that I needed a heart transplant. The transplant team from the Freeman Hospital (Newcastle upon Tyne) reviewed my medical history and offered a place on the waiting list I remained in the cornary care ward to await a suitable donor organ. I only had to wait for 5 weeks before a potential donor organ became available. I was flown to Newcastle where the operation was performed overnight on the 17th/18th October 2002. The operation went smoothly. Although I required several days of dialysis I made a speedy recovery and was able after sevendays to get out of bed. After ten days I was managing my own drugs. The daily physiotherapy sessions developed mobility and confidence. My wife attended these sessions, they helped her to understand that physical activity was important to goood physical and psychological health. After a short period in the hospital flats I returned home on 6th December in time for the best christmas ever. I attend the Freeman outpatients clinic every three months for routine check ups. I have not experienced any set backs. I am leading a very full and active life. Having reached sixty, I am now retired. I was appointed a non-executive director of the Ulster Community & Hospital Trust in January 2004 Best of all, my daughter presented us with our first grandson in August 2003. Because of my donor, Steves "Gift of Life" and the skill and care of the staff in both the Belfast City and Freeman Hospitals I have the joy of seeing him develop.
Left to right - Helen(daughter),Sam(grandson),Hilary(wife), Myself, Jonathan(Son-in-Law)
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