Uniting hearts: Inspiring patient voices fuels innovation at Edwards Lifesciences

MedTech & Diagnostics News: In a heart-warming event that united patients, their loved ones, employees, and representatives from patient organisations such as hearts4heart, Patient Voice Initiative, and the Australian Heart Foundation, Edwards Lifesciences hosted its annual Patient Experience event. With a focus on fostering connections and inspiring individuals, the event provided a platform for patients who have benefitted from Edwards Lifesciences technologies to share their remarkable journeys from diagnosis to surgical intervention.

Pat Williams, Vice President ANZ & Korea at Edwards Lifesciences, opened the event with a heartfelt welcome. He expressed his gratitude and excitement, saying, “We are thrilled that you’ve chosen to spend the next couple of hours with us. We want to learn about you. We want to be inspired by you. Your presence fuels our passion to develop future innovations.”

Mr Williams emphasised Edwards Lifesciences’ commitment to remaining focused on areas of structural heart disease and critical care monitoring, highlighting their dedication to meeting the needs of underserved patients.

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He stated, “Unlike many in the medtech industry, we have chosen to remain laser-focused. This allows us to concentrate our resources and expertise, understand your journey and the challenges, and engineer potential future innovations.”

The event featured an interview with Laura and her partner Daniel, conducted by Tanya Hall, CEO of hearts4heart. Laura shared her journey, from being diagnosed with congenital heart disease to her courageous decision to undergo surgery at the age of 27. She spoke about the emotional rollercoaster of living with her diagnosis, her relentless pursuit of information, the quest for different medical opinions, and finally finding a surgeon who understood her concerns and offered a viable solution.

Laura’s partner, Daniel, expressed his support and admiration for her strength throughout the process. He shared the difficulties he experienced as a young caregiver, witnessing Laura’s pain and anxieties.

The audience listened intently as Laura recounted her recovery journey, the setbacks she faced, and the perseverance that carried her through. She shared excerpts from her personal journal, capturing the raw emotions she experienced during her healing process. Together, Laura and Daniel delivered an inspiring message of resilience and unwavering determination, showcasing the incredible power of the human spirit to overcome challenges and embrace growth.

The event also highlighted the voice of patients in educating politicians. One such example was the story of Anthony, whose relationship with Edwards Lifesciences led to conversations with Dr Mike Freelander MP, Chair of the Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care and Sport about heart valve disease and raising awareness. Anthony’s experience showcased how patients and their loved ones can drive meaningful change in healthcare.

Philippe Bizot, Senior VP of APAC at Edwards Lifesciences, expressed his gratitude to the patients and their loved ones, acknowledging the power of their stories in driving the company’s mission to do better. Mr Bizot also highlighted the increasing number of patients with heart valve disease and the urgency to ensure they receive optimal treatment.

“One thing we learn from the patient experience is that people are looking for ways to continue the conversation and to support one another. Whether you lend an ear to listen, a hand to support or a voice to speak on behalf of all patient, we encourage you to continue to share your voice,” he said.

As the event came to a close, attendees felt a renewed sense of purpose and a deep appreciation for the power of shared experiences. The stories of triumph and hope will continue to inspire and motivate Edwards Lifesciences in their ongoing pursuit of innovative solutions and improved care for patients around the world.

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