‘I’m 27 and I’ve been told I could drop dead at any moment’

A 27-year-old woman, Bella Salsberry, has been given a life-altering diagnosis by doctors – she has a genetic heart condition that could cause her to drop dead at any moment. Bella is battling with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), a condition that thickens the heart muscles and disrupts normal blood flow, leading her to rely on a pacemaker for survival. She has opened up about the harsh reality of living with this condition, emphasising the importance of raising awareness.

Bella’s family has a tragic history with HCM, as her brother passed away from the condition at just 12 years old. This prompted genetic testing within the family, revealing that her mother unknowingly carried the gene, passing it on to three of her children. Bella highlights that HCM is more prevalent than commonly perceived, with sudden cardiac death being a leading global cause, affecting individuals of all ages and physical conditions.

Despite undergoing an echocardiogram that initially showed no signs of HCM, Bella’s definitive diagnosis came via a genetic test. This early detection has been crucial in managing her condition, as she now faces the challenges of congestive heart failure. Bella draws attention to the importance of genetic testing in identifying conditions like HCM, which may otherwise go undetected for years.

Bella’s personal journey with HCM has not only been physically demanding but emotionally taxing as well. She emphasises the tendency for women to be misdiagnosed or overlooked in the medical field when it comes to heart conditions. Through her experiences, Bella advocates for increased awareness, early detection, and proper management of HCM to prevent tragedies like those in her own family.

Amidst the uncertainties and struggles of living with a life-threatening condition, Bella’s message remains one of resilience and gratitude for life itself. She acknowledges the fragility of existence but stands firm in the belief that every moment is worth cherishing and living to the fullest. Bella’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of raising awareness about lesser-known health conditions like HCM.

In a world where silent health threats lurk beneath the surface, Bella’s bravery in sharing her story sheds light on the importance of proactive health measures and early intervention. Her journey exemplifies the strength found in vulnerability and the power of raising one’s voice to inspire change and unity in the face of adversity. Bella’s advocacy for awareness and empowerment resonates as a beacon of hope for those navigating similar health challenges and underscores the significance of cherishing each precious moment of life.