Anne’s story: Aortic dissection survivor becomes advocate for cardiac research

Anne Kennedy felt unwell one February 2022 evening, but not so much that she felt she should cancel dinner plans with friends. "I knew something wasn't right," Anne recalls. "But I could not pinpoint it. Since I was planning to head home right after dinner anyway, I decided to go."

What followed was unimaginable. She collapsed on the sidewalk and her friend called 911. Anne was rushed to Bryn Mawr Hospital, where a CT scan revealed an aortic dissection, a condition in which a tear occurs in the inner layer of the aorta, putting her life at risk.

Supporting cardiac research after LIMR saved her life

She would survive, however, launching her on a journey of gratitude that has benefited Lankenau Institute for Medical Research (LIMR) and the work of the doctor who saved her, Basel Ramlawi, MD.

"We wanted to give back to help ensure that others don't go through what we did," Anne says. "We have experienced cardiac disease with close family members. There must be a way to prevent these conditions through research. Dr. Ramlawi gave me a second chance at life, and we are thankful for that. Supporting research is our way of honoring his heroic efforts and helping to improve cardiac care for future patients." Anne and her husband, Paul, have made a major contribution to support cardiac research since her recovery.

Dr. Ramlawi was the surgeon contacted for an immediate consult upon Anne's arrival at Bryn Mawr Hospital. His team jumped into action. They arranged for Anne's swift transport to Lankenau Medical Center, where she underwent an emergency eight-hour surgery.

Anne's recovery was a long and challenging road, requiring two weeks in the intensive care unit. Yet her determination and the support of her family and medical team helped her regain strength.

"The shock and trauma of that night will stay with me forever," Anne says. "But I am so grateful to Dr. Ramlawi and his team for giving me a chance at life again. Without them, I would not be here today."

Through their donation to LIMR's cardiac research, Anne and Paul aim to support continued advancements in cardiac care, ensuring that future patients receive the same level of lifesaving attention and care that Anne did.

Dr. Ramlawi and William Gray, MD, are co-Directors of the Lankenau Heart Institute and LIMR's leading cardiac researchers (see cover story). Through their leadership, Lankenau Heart Institute provides the setting for LIMR's cutting-edge trials, creating opportunities in patient care that are unavailable in most health systems, including for aortic dissection.

"I think Anne is a hero," Dr. Ramlawi says. "She worked hard to get her life back. Now, the generosity of Anne and her husband to support research can translate into many more lives saved down the road."

Anne has returned to being active in her community, but now she shares her experience to raise awareness of the dangers of aortic dissection. "It is important to listen to your body, and if something feels wrong, do not wait — seek help immediately," she says. "My experience has taught me how quickly life can change, and I want others to be aware of life-threatening conditions like this one."

Next steps:

Make an appointment with Basel Ramlawi, MD
Make an appointment with William Gray, MD
Learn more about heart and vascular care at Main Line Health
Learn learn more about cardiac research at LIMR