George's message of hope

“It can affect any of us, at all times.”
– George Zikas, 71-year-old heart attack survivor living with diabetes

In 2007 after returning from a holiday in the US, George was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. For George, heart health has always been at the forefront of his mind, with both of his parents having died from cardiac-related conditions. 

Despite this, George didn’t think much about the chest discomfort he had experienced. It wasn’t until several days later that something didn’t feel right, when he experienced the same sensation walking home from the market with his wife. 

“At rest my heart rate was at about 100. I had chest pains and a pain in my arm, so I took myself to emergency.” 

George was admitted into hospital immediately and had a cardiac stent put in a day later. 

“I’ve always been able to take stuff in my stride so there was no panic.” 

George was confident that he would recover well thanks to the care he received at the Royal Adelaide Hospital and felt comfort in the ongoing research in heart health. 

Today, George leads a life in moderation, leading a healthy lifestyle and diet alongside medication. He exercises regularly and rides his bike every day. 

He felt pleased to be involved in Associate Professor Peter Psaltis’ research in preventing repeat heart attacks, citing the benefits that this will have on Aussies like him who have experienced a heart attack. 

“It will have an incredible flow on effect … it’s all about preventing heart disease.” 

George believes strongly in the power of heart health education, prevention, and ongoing research. 

He encourages his family to never hesitate when it comes to heart health, advising his 39-year-old son recently to consult his GP after experiencing chest discomfort. 

“Prevention is what will help us in the end.” 

Your donation this festive season will bring hope to even more Australians just like George, and fight for improved heart health for all.