David Filimon, a retired deputy superintendent of transportation from Staten Island, experienced breathing difficulties while out for a walk last April. Initially dismissing these symptoms as a bronchial infection, Filimon chose not to seek immediate medical attention despite his girlfriend Joanne’s urging. “I knew it wasn’t a heart attack,” said Filimon. He insisted that he had no typical heart attack symptoms and planned to attend a Hot Tuna concert.
On the night of the concert, Filimon’s symptoms worsened, necessitating pauses to catch his breath. Still, he continued with his plans, but shortly after, he visited the Northwell Staten Island University Hospital. He told medical staff he only needed antibiotics, believing that would resolve his condition.
However, testing revealed that Filimon had peripheral artery disease (PAD), significantly narrowing the arteries in his legs. Dr. Maniatis had to maneuver through these blockages with a catheter. Dr. Iribarne explained, “David’s case was complex. Because he was so critically ill, we had to put him on an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) machine, which is basically portable life support that takes over the work of the heart and lungs.”
During a two-hour procedure, Filimon’s diseased valve was replaced with a bioprosthetic valve. “With the new valve, his heart function immediately improved,” said Dr. Iribarne. Filimon’s heart started functioning much better, allowing him to be discharged two days later. Post-surgery, Filimon expressed gratitude towards his medical team, stating, “My doctors and the whole team were excellent. I had complete confidence in them.”
Filimon has since undergone a smooth recovery, participating in a cardiac rehabilitation program and maintaining regular check-ups. His determination remains evident as he remarks, “The first thing I did after I got home was walk the dog, and then I saw Neil Young in concert.”
