"It Wasn’t Heartburn—It Was a Heart Attack": One Survivor’s Wake-Up Call
GRAND RAPIDS, MI, October 2, 2025 — Back in March, a routine family dinner turned into a life-altering moment for one Grand Rapids, Mich., resident. After trying a spicier-than-usual dish at a local Mexican restaurant, Matt Wezeman began experiencing what felt like severe heartburn. Discomfort set in quickly, and by the end of the evening, Matt had excused himself early, thinking a good night’s sleep would help.
But the pain didn’t stop.
For the next seven days, the chest discomfort persisted—accompanied by extreme fatigue, unusual jaw pain, and a general sense that something wasn’t right. Still, he brushed it off, convincing himself it was indigestion or perhaps just a gas bubble. At one point, the pain grew so intense that Matt found himself lying on the floor of his office, hoping it would pass.
By Friday morning, even the act of driving had become difficult. Instead of heading to work, Matt made a split-second decision that would ultimately save his life: he pulled into the emergency room.
That’s when the truth came out.
It wasn’t heartburn. It was a heart attack.
Doctors discovered multiple blockages, and within hours, Matt was undergoing emergency surgery to place a stent. That very procedure, which has saved countless lives since it was first performed in 1986, was made possible in part by research funded by the American Heart Association.
Waking up from surgery was a shock. This was someone who runs ultramarathons, hikes regularly, and follows a healthy diet. But, as his cardiologist gently reminded him, sometimes genetics can override even the healthiest lifestyle choices.
“I grew up in a generation where you were taught to ‘suck it up’ and push through the pain,” Wezeman later reflected. “But that mindset almost cost me my life.”
His message now is simple, but urgent: listen to your body. Chest pain, fatigue, and discomfort especially when persistent—are not signs to ignore. They’re signals to act.
Matt is now using his voice to encourage others to schedule their annual physical, recognize the warning signs of heart disease, and never let pride or doubt keep them from seeking help.
“I ignored the signs of a heart attack for a full week,” Wezeman said. “I’m incredibly lucky to be here to tell you this story. Please don’t wait like I did.”
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Remi Monaghan: remi.monaghan@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
