A Second Chance at Life After Heart Failure

As Heart Failure Awareness Week concludes, patient advocate Jerad Green is sharing his journey to help others recognize symptoms, trust their instincts, and understand the emotional and physical realities of living with heart failure.

Green’s experience began with symptoms that initially seemed like lingering allergies. He developed persistent congestion and began waking in the middle of the night struggling to breathe. Sitting upright became the only way he could sleep. Over time, additional symptoms emerged, including loss of appetite, nausea after meals, and difficulty keeping food or water down. Although he initially suspected postnasal drip or digestive issues, his symptoms worsened, eventually leading him to seek emergency care.

Looking back, Green says one of the biggest challenges was communicating his symptoms clearly to healthcare providers. He describes feeling like food was “stuck” or not moving through his body properly, but struggled to find language that conveyed how serious his condition felt. He encourages patients to advocate for themselves, noting that individuals often know when something feels wrong, even if they cannot fully explain why.

Green also emphasizes that heart failure is complex and can be influenced by factors beyond traditional lifestyle risks. He reflects on the role systemic stress and lived experiences can play in long-term health, highlighting the importance of understanding both individual and societal contributors to chronic illness. He also sees emerging tools, including artificial intelligence, as potential resources to help patients prepare questions and better communicate with providers, while emphasizing that they should never replace medical care.

Recovery required major lifestyle adjustments. Through cardiac rehabilitation, Green learned to safely rebuild strength while gaining confidence in his body’s abilities. After losing significant weight during his illness, he gradually worked to regain muscle and endurance. He found creative ways to stay active, including walking through stores or touring homes, which helped him maintain movement without overexertion.

Equally important, Green says, was addressing his mental and emotional health. He experienced anxiety, panic attacks and fear about his future following diagnosis. Over time, he learned the importance of managing stress, setting boundaries, and finding support through community and spirituality. He also created an online support platform to connect with others living with heart failure.

Today, Green describes heart failure as a life-changing diagnosis that ultimately gave him a renewed perspective. His message to others is simple but urgent: do not ignore symptoms, seek care early and advocate for answers. He also stresses the need for a healthcare system that listens to patients and provides equitable, culturally responsive care for all.