Life can throw some unexpected challenges our way, but it's the strength and support of a community that helps us get through. Imagine living each day under the weight of a chronic heart condition. I was born with left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy, a rare disease of the heart muscle. Recently, I learned that this condition has progressed to heart failure and superior vena cava syndrome—a life-threatening combination that requires surgical intervention.The upcoming surgery (scheduled for May 29) is daunting. It means opening my chest, harvesting healthy veins from my legs, and bypassing blocked veins including the crucial superior vena cava. My incredible and talented medical team will replace my old defibrillator and its wiring with a new subcutaneous device. Although the procedure is complex, the emotional and financial burden is what truly weighs heavy on my heart, since I will be unable to work while I recover. This is where your compassion can make a real difference. Every donation will directly support my medical expenses, covering the surgery, post-operative care, and accumulating bills. Your generosity is not just a contribution; it's a life-saving act of kindness that provides hope and healing during this terrifying time.I humbly ask for your help. Your support will not only alleviate the financial strain but will also be a beacon of hope during a very challenging journey. Please consider donating today to help me fight this battle. You have the power to make an incredible impact. Thank you for standing by my side and for your heartfelt generosity.
If you are unable to make a donation, sharing and praying have more power than you know. Thank you in advance to all of you who help me along the way, my family, my friends, and my support system both at work and the outside world. Thank you in advance for whatever assistance you can provide.
love you humble heart warrior,
Amanda Leatherwood
Hello, family! My subcutaneous ICD implantation surgery was a success. Right now the electrophsiologist has me wearing a binder on and off. I cannot lift my left arm above my shoulder or carry anything heavier than a gallon of milk. No big deal! The pain is more than expected; however, I have to keep in mind that she did cut through my muscle. I have been alternating heat and cold, which is helping a lot. The surgical sites (posterior left armpit and midline chest) look incredible. Of course there is bruising, inflammation, and some blisters from the adhesive. But, WOW, what an incredible surgeon that operated on me…you cannot even tell I have a SUBCUTANEOUS ICD! I’m in utter disbelief. It may sound vain but I was concerned that it would be sticking out like the ones I’ve seen in my nursing career and the ones I found online. Anyways, I had an xray to check for placement and everything looked good so I got to come home. Now it’s time to heal. I’m praying for a speedy recovery so I can get back to work and begin to have an income again. I still have not received a paycheck since July due to my LTD being denied and then stuck in an appeal process. 
Tomorrow I will be getting my subcutaneous ICD! This should be the last surgery I will need for awhile, as long as all goes well. It’s been a rough ride but I’m hoping to see the light at the end of the tunnel soon. I can’t wait to get back to work as a nurse case manager in CARDIOVASCULAR SURGERY! Life is funny like that sometimes. However, this experience will make me a better nurse, a more empathetic and compassionate nurse. And for that, I am grateful. Thank you to all who have followed my journey. Thank you to all the donors, sharers, senders of good vibes, and those who have prayed for me. You have no idea how much you have helped me. It has been very difficult financially since my long term disability was denied due to a preexisting condition clause! 
