A pastor collapsed at home while wrapping Christmas presents. Doctors found his heart was “hard as cement.”

Pastor Kelvis Reid faced a life-threatening situation when he was diagnosed with AL amyloidosis, a complex condition that primarily affects the heart and kidneys. Despite the risks, Reid decided to spend the holidays wrapping Christmas presents with his family and congregation before starting treatment. Little did he know that this decision would lead to a major cardiac event that would change his life forever.

Dr. Amar Parikh, the director of Cardio-Oncology at Atrium Health, had warned Reid about the possibility of a cardiac arrest due to his condition. He had even trained Reid’s family in CPR in case of an emergency. And that emergency came sooner than expected while Reid was wrapping presents with his loved ones. He felt a burning sensation in his chest and then lost consciousness, not regaining it until the end of January.

Reid had suffered a major cardiac arrest, but thanks to his family’s quick action and CPR training, his life was saved. He was hospitalized and remained unconscious for weeks, relying on life support and dialysis. His heart was severely damaged, and his condition was deteriorating rapidly.

AL amyloidosis is a condition where abnormal proteins accumulate on organs and tissues, causing a range of symptoms. Reid’s diagnosis was delayed, and by the time he was diagnosed in December 2023, his heart was already severely affected. The condition can lead to dangerous heart rhythms and advanced heart failure, which was the case for Reid.

Treatment for AL amyloidosis varies depending on the stage of the disease. In Reid’s case, doctors decided to start him on medication to stabilize his condition before considering a heart and kidney transplant. After a successful transplant on his late mother’s birthday in February 2024, Reid began a challenging recovery journey.

Reid’s recovery was arduous, requiring him to take 37 pills a day and undergo intensive rehabilitation. But he remained determined to achieve his goal of running a 5K race the following year. After months of hard work, Reid was able to participate in the race, surrounded by the nurses and doctors who had cared for him during his hospitalization.

Now, 18 months post-transplant, Reid has been able to reduce his medication regimen, showing no signs of organ rejection. His cardiac health is stable, and he has returned to his role as a pastor, inspiring others to prioritize their health. Reid’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and faith in overcoming life’s challenges.