In a Heartbeat : True Stories and Advice: Insights from Experts, Survivors, and Frontline Heroes

‘If you’re having symptoms that don’t feel right, call Triple Zero.

If it’s not a heart issue, then that’s OK. No one ever died of embarrassment.’

Author Rachel Jayne Cassidy knows firsthand what it’s like to be on the brink of life and death. After surviving a critical heart attack, she understands the challenges of heart health. Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer worldwide, impacting more than 500,000 Australians. Rachel emphasises for the lucky survivors that while recovery takes time, it is crucial to learn how to live and thrive after a heart event.

In a Heartbeat delves into the emotional and physical complexities of dealing with heart disease, sharing real-life, emotionally raw stories that provide insight into the impact of this disease. From survivors to everyday heroes who, by a momentary twist of fate have saved a life, to the health professionals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to give seriously ill patients a second chance at life. This combination of insightful stories captures the full spectrum of experiences and provides a comprehensive understanding of heart health.

This valuable guide features uplifting, inspiring accounts of human survival against all odds, alongside valuable heart health information from well-recognised cardiologists and health professionals across Australia. Inspiring stories include Strictly Ballroom star turned politician Paul Mercurio, former original yellow Wiggle Greg Page, aspiring First Nations entertainer Warrawatja Bell, little Arlo—the face of the 2023 Royal Children’s Hospital appeal, former Chief Minister of the Northern Territory Michael Gunner, and many more.

Rachel Jayne’s journey as a heart attack survivor and heart health advocate provides her with deep personal insights and invaluable knowledge. She is dedicated to ensuring that those who have experienced a heart event find comfort and reassurance in this book, knowing they are not alone. Rachel Jayne hopes this book will spark a potentially lifesaving conversation.

PRAISE FOR THE BOOK

‘Rachel Jayne Cassidy’s journey is a remarkable one. From full-time writer and Australian of the Year Finalist to patient recovering from an acute heart event to heart health champion, her natural gift as a storyteller and communicator comes to the fore in this book … this time to deal with the complexities, both emotional and physical, of dealing with heart disease. The result is a significant contribution to an incredibly important issue.’ - David Lloyd, CEO, National Heart Foundation of Australia

‘It is my hope that In a Heartbeat will further promote understanding and public awareness of heart disease in all manifestations.’ - Dr Bennett Sheridan MBBS, BMedSci (Hons), FCICM, FRACP, FCSANZ, AFRACMA Paediatric Cardiologist and Intensive Care Specialist

‘A valuable resource for cardiac patients or for the general public to learn more about heart health issues.’ - Associate Professor Paul Gould – Cardiologist

‘A compilation of inspiring stories of heart attack survivors and an insight behind the scenes in the lives of those who are saving lives every day. To my knowledge this type of publication has never been written before in book form in this style in Australia.’ – Greg Evans, acclaimed television host and award winning radio personality

‘Participating in this book, has pushed me to move forward with a positive and inclusive outlook for the future. Having opened up by discussing my life changing experience with Rachel Jayne, she helped me to gain a better understanding of my heart health and “head in the sand” blokey attitude which I now know at times hurt those that I loved and those around me. She took me to a better place.’ - Daryl Dealehr, Heart Attack Survivor, Contributor