Tommy Kierans

Hi I’m Tommy and secretary for HFWNI. I’m originally from Co. Louth but I’m now living in Mullaghbawn with my wife Gail and her daughter Gemma for the last number of years.

In January of this year (2023) I suffered a sudden loss of breath at home while carrying something from the car.

I attended my GP and was sent to Daisy Hill A&E and was diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation. (I had already been prescribed medication for an over active thyroid a few months previously).

I was referred to Craigavon hospital for an echo where at the age of 53 I was diagnosed with Heart Failure with an EF of between 20-25% and a leaky mitral valve. I was discharged after just over 2 weeks of excellent care in hospital. Since then I have continued taking my medication and following the recommended lifestyle changes as best as I can.

A recent follow up echo showed my heart pumping function has improved considerably with an EF of 45% and the leaking valve has also considerably improved.

I feel thankful for the support of my family and friends and lucky in the fact that I was diagnosed and treated so quickly and also to be a part of this great new patient support group where I can share my experiences with other people dealing with heart failure. I’m a keen Liverpool supporter and enjoy going for walks with my dog Kenny (Dog-leash) and also love travelling.

Music: Very varied – bar country!
Best Gig: The Presidents of the USA
TV: Breaking Bad, Dexter, Outlander
Books: Jack Reacher series, The Undead series
Podcast: The Blindboy Podcast
Travel destination: Nerja, Spain