Ken Wigley is a retired Reach Operator for the Teamsters Union, a position he held for 31 years. He had been living with heart failure for about ten years, and suffered a heart attack eight years ago. In 2024, Ken faced a life altering challenge, undergoing a Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) procedure at Deborah Heart and Lung Center. Today, he is a symbol of perseverance, and his story serves as a testament to the power of teamwork, hope and the human spirit.

An LVAD procedure is a type of surgery in which a mechanical pump is implanted into a person’s chest to help the heart pump blood. It is primarily used for individuals who have advanced heart failure, particularly when the left ventricle (the heart’s main pumping chamber) is not able to pump blood effectively.

“I call receiving an LVAD my rebirthday because I feel blessed to have a new lease on life. The energy from the Deborah team radiated through me and helped give me the strength to push through dark times,” Ken shared. “I really felt like all of the team members were fighting this battle with me.”

Ken’s journey was not easy, but it was marked by a deep connection with the caregivers who were by his side. As he faced uncertainty before his procedure, Ken was surrounded by love and support from his family. His 86-year-old mother and brothers cheered him on, and as he entered the operating room, Ken sang “Hooked on a Feeling,” a song that held special meaning for him and his wife, Carolyn. His song brought cheers from his family and the nurses, offering a heartwarming moment of hope and joy at a challenging time.

After many hospitalizations in his life, he says the care he received at Deborah was unlike any other. “I’ve been hospitalized hundreds of times, I know care; and I can say that the level of care from Deborah is second to none. It’s truly something else,” Ken remarked. “Thank you to everyone on the Deborah team for giving me more precious time to spend with my family and close friends. This experience showed me that time with those you love is all that truly matters.”

For Ken, his rebirthday wasn’t just about regaining his physical health—it was about a renewed perspective on life. “I feel alive, energetic and blessed. I’ve gained all my weight back and can move around on my own. I’ve seen births in my family that I never would have if it weren’t for Deborah. I also got to see my Eagles win a second Super Bowl! It’s been a great year, all thanks to Deborah!”

Ken’s gratitude is as infectious as his joy. He made a special visit to the Deborah team in March to mark the one year anniversary of his LVAD procedure, bringing candy bags for the staff with photos of himself during his hospital stay and now, looking strong in a suit. His gesture reflected just how deeply he values the people who helped him regain his life.

For Ken, the future is bright. He’s focused on spending time with his loved ones, cherishing every moment, and living life to the fullest. His story is a reminder of the power of resilience, the importance of community, and the unmatched care at Deborah Heart and Lung Center.