Relieved James McGrath opens up about health concerns

With a notable family history of heart disease, Torino and Westmeath hurling umpire James McGrath was wary of the possibility of heart problems in the future. Two heart-related procedures at Mater in the past nine months have helped the 47-year-old former All-Ireland hurling final umpire to “steady the ship” and even tackle 100 miles in a month. February challenge.

“I’ve always been aware of my somewhat concerning history of heart disease, particularly the history of heart disease on my mother’s side, the William family. In 2009, even though I had no symptoms, I was diagnosed with heart disease as a preventive measure. I had my first heart test. But everything was clear at that stage,” James explained.

But 10 years later, his worst fears came true.

“The first signs of a serious problem appeared in 2019. I noticed that my heartbeat was irregular and my chest was shaking. It happened intermittently for several months until I had my first bad situation in May 2020 at the beginning of the pandemic. I couldn’t catch my breath and felt my heart inside me physically going crazy. It becomes erratic, fast, and very slow. I was admitted to Mullingar Regional Hospital, where it was confirmed that I had atrial fibrillation, an irregular heart rhythm. was monitored for several days and given medication to manage the symptoms,” he recalled.

“Then, over time, the atrial fibrillation incidents started happening more regularly, going from monthly occurrences to weekly occurrences.”Interestingly, when I was working out or officiating a game, When I was doing it, they never seemed to happen. However, if I had been sick over the weekend, I could pretty much predict that I would have a seizure on Monday night. ”

James was aware of his family history and was concerned that he could develop serious health problems if this issue was not addressed and he received a comprehensive medical examination. As an active athlete and with a busy working career, he didn’t want to miss out on any opportunities.

“These incidents did not stress me out, but the thought of them happening was always in the back of my mind. I was worried that I would collapse while officiating a match or at work. – “I’m deputy headteacher at Castlepollard Community School in Westmeath,” he said.

“Also, something that has always been in the back of my mind is the family history I mentioned earlier. I am the youngest of nine children, ranging in age from 47 to 65. All but two of us have We had related issues: two of our brothers had open heart surgery, one suffered from congestive heart failure, and one had an ablation procedure. I died of what was suspected to be a heart attack. I was hoping that the team caring for me would find the best solution.”

He then began treatment at the Mater Hospital in Dublin.

“At this stage my treatment was transferred to Mater Hospital and looked after by a super team including: Professor Mahon, Professor Galvin, Dr Keeney, Dr Mahon and Dr Cadogan. “Here, we use heat or cold energy to create small wounds in the heart, interrupting the faulty electrical signals and restoring a typical heartbeat,” he explained. did.

“I had my surgery on June 23, 2023. Believe it or not, thanks to continued technological advances, I was in and out in one day.” I felt great after it was over. At best, I went swimming the next morning. ”

Further tests later revealed a coronary problem, requiring further treatment. After everything was over, I felt a little relieved.

“When I returned for a follow-up CT scan in November last year, it was noted that there was a possible blockage in one of the blood vessels around my heart.An angiogram was performed to follow that up. “Thanks to the cancellation, I was able to undergo the surgery successfully.” “That angiogram was last week. It only confirmed a minor blockage. And I don’t need a stent at this point,” James said.

He feels once again that he has been supported by excellent medical professionals and is looking forward to continuing his busy and active lifestyle.

“Health-wise, I am in very good condition at the moment and feel comfortable undergoing ablation and angiography procedures.” He took me to the meter. And I’m very grateful for Mater’s team’s expertise and technology in dealing with cases like mine. “That’s one of the reasons I participate in fundraisers like 100 Miles a Month for Heart Care; they make a real, tangible difference,” he said.

“I will be called back in June for a 12-month check on the ablation. I continue to take medications such as aspirin and cholesterol tablets to keep the situation under control.” Apart from that, I am also the vice principal and referee. I returned to my daily life as a member. And I hope to go to the Leinster Umpire Fitness Test in a few weeks. ”