Episode 8: Heart to Heart: Lisa Salberg’s Story of Resilience and Advocacy

The DNA of Things with Dr. Jeremy Koenig

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Lisa Salberg, a pioneering advocate for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) patients and the founder of the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association (HCMA). Lisa shares her deeply personal journey, beginning with her family's tragic history with HCM, a genetic heart condition that has affected multiple generations. Diagnosed herself at the age of 12, Lisa’s story is one of resilience, advocacy, and transformation.

Listen as Lisa recounts the challenges her family faced, including her sister’s untimely death due to HCM, which fueled her determination to create a support network for those affected by this rare condition. Through the HCMA, Lisa has built a community that offers essential resources, education, and emotional support to thousands of families worldwide.

The episode delves into the advancements in HCM treatment and the importance of genetic awareness and early diagnosis. Lisa’s own experience of undergoing a heart transplant in 2017, and the profound emotional impact of receiving a donor heart, highlights the life-changing potential of medical innovation and the power of human resilience.

Join us for an inspiring conversation about the importance of patient advocacy, the evolution of HCM care, and the enduring spirit of a woman who turned her family's struggles into a global mission of hope and support.
Episode Highlights:

• Genetic Awareness and Early Diagnosis: Understanding the genetic nature of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is crucial. Early diagnosis can significantly impact the management and outcomes of the condition.
• Importance of Support Systems: The Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association (HCMA), founded by Lisa Salberg, demonstrates the power of community and support in helping patients navigate their diagnoses and treatments.
• Advancements in Medical Treatments: Innovations in HCM treatment, including recognized centers of excellence and heart transplantation, have improved patient outcomes and quality of life.
• Emotional Resilience and Advocacy: Lisa’s journey highlights immense emotional resilience and the transformative power of turning personal and familial hardships into a mission of advocacy and support.
• Personal Experience with Heart Transplantation: Lisa’s successful heart transplant and her ongoing gratitude towards her donor illustrate the profound impact of organ donation and advanced medical procedures.
• Expanding Global Impact: The HCMA’s growth and global reach underscore the importance of dedicated advocacy organizations in providing resources, education, and support to patients and their families worldwide.

LINKS:

https://4hcm.org/
https://www.drjeremykoenig.com/
https://www.instagram.com/drjeremykoenig/
https://www.youtube.com/@drjeremykoenig