Heart transplant patient completes mile-long Heart Walk a year after surgery
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Boston, Mass.
2024 Heart Walk photo courtesy of the American Heart Association
Kieran, a 57-year-old father of three, joined the American Heart Association’s 2024 Boston Heart Walk just over a year after receiving a heart transplant. While waiting for the transplant surgery, he struggled to stroll short distances. His participation in the one-mile walk reflected his progress toward recovery and his desire to support heart disease advocacy and research.
Kieran’s heart problems began in 2003 with a diagnosis of cardiomyopathy, likely caused in part by a viral infection. In 2010, he suffered two heart attacks and underwent triple bypass surgery. A decade later, his condition worsened, and doctors determined that another bypass would not help. He was referred to the Advanced Heart Failure Program at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, where evaluations led clinicians to conclude a heart transplant was his best option.
In fall 2023, the Beth Israel Lahey Health Heart Transplant Program at BIDMC opened in a new, state-of the-art building. Kiernan met the program’s surgical director, Masashi Kai, M.D., and decided to transfer his transplant listing to BIDMC. A little over a week afterward, Kiernan was matched with a donor heart. He underwent transplant surgery on Sept. 23, 2023.
Following the operation, Kieran experienced complications that required additional surgery, but his care team addressed them quickly. Thirty-seven days after arriving at BIDMC, Kiernan was able to return home to his wife.
Over the following year, he made regular visits to BIDMC for monitoring and continued recovery. His care team provided medical oversight, education and emotional support, emphasizing that recovery from a transplant is gradual but manageable with consistent follow-up and adherence to treatment.
In October 2024, Kieran joined the Boston Heart Walk with his own fundraising team, which raised nearly $5,000 for the American Heart Association. Cheered on by family, friends and BIDMC team members, Kieran completed the walk and expressed a firm commitment to continue caring for his heart and health.