Skip to Content
Medical City Healthcare

Kathleen de Leon

Alerts from Kathleen de Leon's smartwatch led her to Medical City Heart Hospital, where she received a pacemaker to treat a heart block.

December 20, 2023
Kathleen de Leon and her chihuahua Manu

Not long ago, Kathleen de Leon’s smartwatch repeatedly alerted her that her heart rate was dangerously low, fluctuating between 28 and 37 beats per minute. Experts say that’s more than 20 beats too slow.

On her way home from the nail salon, Kathleen stopped at a CareNow where a quick heart rate check sent her to the emergency department. Kathleen was diagnosed with a complete heart block, a serious issue with the heart’s electrical system.

At Medical City Heart Hospital, she had a pacemaker implanted and has returned to her routine, including taking care of her beloved chihuahua Manu.

“I could not have had better care,” Kathleen said. “Just as they were about to put me under, I got scared. It finally hit me that I was in pretty bad shape, and I began to cry. A nurse held my hand and told me I was going to be OK.”

Published:
December 20, 2023
Location:
Medical City Heart Spine

Related Stories

Ernest Aviles 

December 26, 2023
Medical City Heart Hospital
After receiving a life-saving heart pump, Ernest Aviles is enjoying every day with his family.

Ernest Aviles 

December 26, 2023
Medical City Heart Hospital
After receiving a life-saving heart pump, Ernest Aviles is enjoying every day with his family.

Bob Cole 

September 22, 2023
Medical City Heart Hospital
Bob is walking his dogs again after experiencing shortness of breath and fainting for months, which led him to Medical City Heart Hospital for care.

Chip Richie 

August 10, 2021
Not being a candidate for newer technologies, Chip needed a heart. Following his transplant, he feels like he's on the receiving end of a miracle.