Madison Reporter

Patrick Leigh, a Wisconsin resident, has returned to the basketball court after receiving a heart transplant. His journey began nearly ten years ago when he was diagnosed with acute heart failure. Despite experiencing difficulties on the court, Leigh initially attributed his symptoms to aging.

In February 2015, a rheumatologist recommended an echocardiogram that revealed the need for a future heart transplant. Referred to UW Health Transplant Center cardiologists, Leigh received care that allowed him to manage his condition through medication for several years.

Dr. Maryl Johnson of UW Health noted that "different patients have different goals and for Patrick, the goal was to stay active for as long as possible before needing a transplant." With this approach, Leigh continued his daily activities until April 2022 when he joined the waitlist for a new heart.

Leigh described waiting for the transplant as challenging due to uncertainty but praised his doctors' reassurance: “The hardest part about being on the transplant wait list was the unknown,” he said. In January 2023, Leigh received news of an available heart and underwent successful surgery led by Dr. Joshua Hermsen at UW Health.

“Every opportunity to restore patients to good health is incredibly rewarding,” Hermsen stated regarding the operation's success. After spending 26 days in recovery at University Hospital, Leigh resumed work three months post-surgery and returned to basketball six months later.

Reflecting on his experience, Leigh expressed gratitude towards his donor and medical team: “I’m just amazed and feel so fortunate,” he said.