Alexus Balmes

At 30, I was diagnosed with non-compaction cardiomyopathy caused by a TTN gene mutation. It came fast, and like many people, I never realized the warning signs until life changed overnight. Today, my heart is supported by an LVAD — a pump that’s keeping me alive while I wait for transplant.

This journey hasn’t been easy, but my medical team carried me through the first steep climb of the roller coaster, and now I wait with strength, gratitude, and deep respect. Every donor comes from a family’s unimaginable loss, yet their love lives on through others. I will never take that gift lightly.

I share my story through media and advocacy to help people who fear doctors and hospitals — like I once did — take that preventative step toward hope. This campaign is helping carry me through multiple transplants, and my doctors believe I can live a full life. If God is willing, three donors will one day give me that chance.

I love life, even through the trials. The dark days make the sun brighter. I am a father and provider, a teacher and mentor, God’s child and angel in progress — and I will honor every heartbeat given to me.

Thank you all.