Lisa Visser, 42 2016 Bakken Invitation Honoree

Lisa suffered a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) at the age of 26, leading to a diagnosis of arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia, a congenital heart defect. She now has an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) to treat future SCA episodes. Grateful for the extra life she receives, she has volunteered time helping various organizations for the homeless in Minnesota.

Lisa's Story

"I have an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) to combat arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia (ARVD), a congenital heart defect. ARVD is a rare form of cardiomyopathy in which the heart muscle of the right ventricle is replaced by fat and/or fibrous tissue, causing the right ventricle to be dilated and contract poorly. As a result, the ability of the heart to pump blood is usually weakened.
“Patients with ARVD often have abnormal heart rhythms, which can increase the risk of sudden cardiac arrest, and death. I suffered a sudden cardiac arrest at the age of 26. I was hospitalized, diagnosed with ARVD and provided with an ICD. This was a life-changing event for me.
“So many people contributed to saving my life that, 15 years later, my ‘thank yous’ do not end. Experiencing firsthand how quickly life can be taken away, I personally accepted my own challenge of doing what I can to give back to those who need help.
“I have use my extra life to advocate for the Minneapolis homeless community. That includes organizing the “United to End Homelessness” event . In 2013, the Minnesota Legislature allocated approximately $60 million in funding for homeless initiatives. In 2014, that dollar figure increased to more than $100 million. Funding in bothyears was influenced by the Unite to End Homelessness event, which provides an opportunity for the community to work toward improving advocacy skills to push for policy change.”