Community Forums

I have a heartmate 3. implanted in January, I can finally shower, I am able to cover the driveline site, but the waterproof bag is a pain. For those of you who shower often how do you manage to protect and keep your batteries and controller dry?

We thought pictures of the Wildkin Adult Lunch Bags would be helpful...Sue does not go anywhere with out one! They have two compartments...top can be used for regular carry everywhere items and the bottom holds the controller and batteries...each compartment has double zippers. They are water...

I received a HeartMate III LVAD on 1/25/19. I have been home from the hospital for 5 days and I am using a Thoratec vest that was given to me at the hospital. I am ready to order mens clothing to accommodate my LVAD and would appreciate some advice. The batteries are now hanging on my side and the...

Medi-Materials now offers the original WHITE Freedom Undervest in larger sizes: 2XL-3XL and the new 4XL-5XL. There is no price mark up for the larger sizes, at all. The 4XL-5XL BLACK Freedom 2 Undervest will be available sometime this Fall.

Hello, I am a very recent LVAD recipient, one month ago today. I just got the ok to go home two days ago. Just starting to get the new lifestyle together. Just thought I would;d introduce myself. I will definitely check out the "bag alternatives', that thing hurts my shoulder, and will be happy to...

I was advised not to shower. But I can use a hand held shower. I was wondering if someone knows if it's better to use teg ad er m or if the press and se al is the same or worse? Thanks.

My husband had his LVAD placed on February 11, 2019. Right now we should be experiencing a lot of then things you all are posting about. What to wear, what can he do, what has it been like etc. We had plans. Unfortunately for me, God had other plans. My beloved died on February 13, 2019. See he...

Hello everyone, To have a great website like this can give hope and happiness for alot of people. My husband had his lvad 2 months back. And he have a C-rtd too. Still trying to adjust with his new life style. I have one question, i tried to google it but i couldnt find an answer for it, hopefully...

Hello, I am Pastor Rucker founder of Walking on Water Outreach Ministries and currently an LVAD patient. I had problems with the standard shoulder bag that I received from the hospital. I later purchased a bag from another vendor it was ok however I am 6'2'' and I did not want my driveline to show....

My mom had an lvad and she passed away. I have a bunch of equipment I would rather donate than just getting rid of. I would love to hear any ideas. I can send pictures if needed. Email me. Klwatk2@gmail.com

What experience has anyone had Fitbit and what model do you recommend?

LVADgear.com has some pretty nice options for men and women on their website and I've heard their clothing is comfortable. I checked their facebook page and see some positive reviews from their customers as well. They also offer accessories like shoulder bags, backpacks and sleeping belts too.

the best clothing option I've found at lvadvests.com...I got my lvad 11/7/19...the batteries hang on the side, under arms and has two pockets in front for left or right line...I actually put my controller in my left front pants pocket and I have a right line...the other shirt I've found is at...

My wife of 37 years is the entire reason for my survival. I had a heart mate 2 put in in January 2019. She has been by my side the entire 2 months in hospital. God bless her. Love you Steph!!

PLEASE EMAIL US DIRECTLY FOR INSTRUCTIONS at Hankpattyrichmond@sbcglobal.net. We have received and filled more than 300 requests for the LVAD vest instructions. We hope that you were able to make your vest and are enjoying its benefits. If you would like to email us pictures of your creations, I can...

We seem to have issues with the anchors staying attached to the skin. Yes we clean with alcohol, let it dry, apply the skin barrier, let that dry and it still comes off. We have also tried with it with out the skin barrier after cleaning the skin with alcohol, and they still come off.

Has anyone figured out a comfortable way to get back behind the wheel? There has to be a better way than wearing the batteries on your hips. And how do I change from prospective patient to recipient?

Hi. I have some LVAD equipment I would love to give away to anyone who needs it. Thoratec Heart Mate Go Gear Battery Holster, 2 Shower Bags, one consolidated bag, right, Battery Holster, power module cable, 2 stabilization belts, white. Please let me know and I will ship to you. thanks Maryellen

My name is Bob Schilling and I am the husband and caregiver for my wife A. Sue Schilling and ….. Just wanted to pass this outstanding "Great Adventure" along. This past week....Sue Schilling...Heartmate 3 LVAD recipient at Penn Presbyterian in October 2017 and recently selected to be an Abbott...

Hello everyone! As a cardiac rehab nurse supervisor I want you to know nurses understand your journey from heart failure - meds- hospitalizations and decreased quality of life leading to decision of LVAD. Cardiac rehabs can help you in your recovery we monitor you and we help you regain your muscle...