As the nation celebrates Heart Month, Onvida Health shares an inspiring love story that highlights the importance of heart health and the power of support during life’s most challenging moments. The Andersons, a couple whose deep love for one another spans over 45 years and two life-changing health journeys, credit their bond for saving each other’s lives. Their experience serves as a powerful reminder to listen to your body and seek timely care.
Dirk and Sharon Anderson first crossed paths by chance in San Francisco when Mr. Anderson, an 18-year-old in the Navy, was helping turn a cable car at Ghirardelli Square. Mrs. Anderson and her friends were seated on the car, and Mr. Anderson was drawn to her instantly, but their lives wouldn’t intertwine just yet. Over the next decade, fate brought them together in remarkable ways – Mr. Anderson spotted Mrs. Anderson at a freeway accident, passed her at a motor lodge, and even rang her up at his job after she wrote a check. Each time, he felt a pull toward her, but it wasn’t until years later, when Mr. Anderson saw a photo of Mrs. Anderson from that day at the cable car in her album, that everything clicked.
In August 2023, Mr. Anderson started experiencing chest pain at home. Encouraged by Mrs. Anderson, he called 911. Thanks to the quick response of paramedics and the information they sent ahead to the hospital, the Onvida Health Cardiology Picacho Plaza Picacho Plaza team was ready to take action as soon as he arrived. Dr. Kassab performed a life-saving procedure to clear a blockage in Mr. Anderson’s heart, using advanced techniques such as stent placement and a temporary heart pump.
“This case highlights the incredible impact of teamwork in saving lives,” shared Dr. Kassab. “It began with Mrs. Anderson, whose quick thinking set everything in motion. The local firefighters provided quick, critical care. EMS was key in coordinating with our team, allowing us to act efficiently. Every step, from the first call to the final procedure, was important – and each team played a heroic role.”
This wasn’t the first health challenge the Andersons faced together. Years earlier, Mrs. Anderson suffered a stroke that caused her heart to stop three times. Each time, Mr. Anderson was there to bring her back. His dedication as her caregiver, along with their faith and unwavering love and mutual support, became the foundation of their resilience through life’s toughest trials.
Today, Mr. Anderson continues his recovery with Dr. Kassab’s team through rehabilitation, combining exercise, dietary guidance, and medication to reduce the risk of future complications. The Andersons hope their story inspires others to prioritize heart health and act quickly when symptoms arise.
“We want people to know that heart disease can happen to anyone, regardless of age, but listening to your body and acting quickly can save your life,” Mr. Anderson said. “And having someone by your side who believes in you and supports you makes all the difference. Sharon and I wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for the fight we both had for each other.”
Onvida Health urges anyone experiencing symptoms of a heart attack to call 911 immediately. This ensures a faster, safer hospital trip and quickens treatment. Paramedics can begin essential tests and alert the hospital team in advance.
Common symptoms of a heart attack include:
- Chest pain or discomfort that feels like pressure, squeezing, or a heavy weight.
- Shortness of breath, even if you’re not doing anything strenuous.
- Pain in other areas, like your arms, back, neck, or jaw.
- Feeling lightheaded, nauseous, or breaking into a cold sweat.
For more information about heart health, visit https://www.onvidahealth.org/services/heart-care.
