At the end of January, 2016, John was a very healthy and active 34-year-old before a virus caused a rare condition called myocarditis, which led to heart failure, strokes and other serious complications. He recently had surgery to implant an LVAD, which is helping to do the work his heart can no longer do. Now, it is likely he will need a life-saving heart transplant in order to survive. John is loved by many and has touched many lives, especially his 3rd grade class of students. The cost of recovery, rehabilitation, and transplant can be overwhelming and we need the support of family and friends.
John grew up in Northern Virginia with his sister Kara and twin brother, Peter. He and I met when he lived next door to me in Scottsville, VA. He has always enjoyed working with children; from being a group leader and supervisor at Discovery School to being a 3rd grade teacher in Harrisonburg, VA. John and I have two young boys (4 years and 15 months old) who enjoyed being active with their father before he became ill. John is looking forward to being home with his boys (reading books to them and playing with them) and returning to his students at school. Together, John and his family are committed to seeing him through his recovery and possible heart transplant.
Updates (8)
December 13, 2017
John continues to amaze. In April his heart pump was removed (no transplant). His heart is doing well. In November John and I finished our first marathon!!
He is now enjoying being a stay-at-home dad and getting to spend more time with his boys.
Thank you to all who have supported us in so many ways. We feel like we've gotten our life back to normal.
-Karen
June 11, 2017
Thank you everyone for your continued support. John is doing great!! At the end of April John's heart was showing improvement so he had his heart pump removed! It is rare for someone to have their heart pump removed without a heart transplant.
As of today, John has been doing well with his recovery and is back to playing with the kids, swimming, and hiking. We continue to take a day at a time and are blessed for John's strength and determination.
Thank you,
The Norment Family
