Andrew Jones is a 26-year-old bodybuilder in the U.S who was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, a hereditary heart condition that affects the muscles of the heart.
Symptoms of the condition started in 2012 when Andrew suddenly lost his breath while doing his regular runs. Two years after this incidence, he started coughing blood and was rushed to the hospital where it was discovered that Andrew had a heart failure that required an immediate heart transplant.
For months, Andrew was unable to do all the normal things he could do before, as he was very weak. All efforts to get a heart proved useless. His doctors had no choice but to attach an artificial heart to his body using two tubes. Andrew, in fact, carries his artificial heart in a backpack which he takes everywhere he goes.
With his artificial heart, Andrew is back in the gym and has begun training again. Doctors have confirmed that Andrew can keep training as long as he follows all the instructions given to him.
To raise awareness for organ donations, Andrew Jones has launched his own charity, which he calls, Hearts at Large.
Andrew’s story is indeed a very emotional and inspiring one. There are, however, several lessons we can learn from this young man. Let’s take a look at five (5) of such lessons:
- You are not a failure unless you accept failure- Andrew refused to allow his artificial heart stop his passion for bodybuilding.
- Life will always throw challenges at you; your reaction to such challenges determines your success- Andrew chose to continue living his life and pursuing his dreams
- A problem can actually become a stepping-stone to your greatness- Andrew’s charity organisation is drawing so much attention globally.
- Find your passion, follow it and constantly fuel it- Andrew is passionate about bodybuilding. What is your passion?
- Be thankful for life and for who you are- Andrew is thankful to be alive. He carries his artificial heart around with pride.
In the end, success is not final, failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.
