It’s easy to assume that heart disease is something that happens to someone else.

For Canberra local Susan*, life at 62 was a whirlwind of demanding corporate roles and long hours, and health scares were simply not on her radar.

Then, in 2021, everything changed in an instant.

Without warning, Susan’s heart rate suddenly accelerated to a terrifying 150 beats per minute. It remained dangerously elevated for an extended period before she sought emergency medical care. The diagnosis was a wake-up call: atrial flutter and atrial fibrillation.

“Looking back, I realise how fortunate I was,” Susan shares.

“Without treatment, I could have suffered a heart attack or stroke. Heart disease can affect anyone, regardless of age, particularly when there is a family history or contributing factors such as stress.”

Following her diagnosis, Susan was referred to a cardiologist. Her condition was stabilised with medication before she underwent two heart procedures. Today, her rhythm is carefully managed through a daily regimen of beta-blockers and blood thinners.

Susan believes her experience highlights the importance of StreetBeat’s mission to install publicly accessible Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) across every single Canberra suburb. In a cardiac emergency, quick access to a defibrillator can literally mean the difference between life and death.

Every heart has a story. What’s yours?

Whether you’re a survivor, a carer or have lost a loved one, your voice can save lives. Share your experiences with our new Stories from the Heart campaign by visiting the StreetBeat website or sending us a DM on our socials today to help raise awareness and protect our community. Submissions can be anonymous.

*Name has been changed for privacy.