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Matthew's story: Incredible survival with PAD

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Matthew Ingram, a resident of Canton, Georgia, and his journey with Northside Hospital Heart Institute and Dr. Ankit Patel has been miraculous. 

Matthew grew up with a family history of peripheral artery disease (PAD), so he knew the risks all too well. When he moved to Canton and needed a new heart doctor, he stumbled upon Dr. Patel’s office. Little did he know this encounter would change his life. 

Ingram_waterfall“My initial visit with Dr. Heather Westmoreland revealed clogged arteries in my left leg,” Matthew said. 

In the absence of Dr. Patel, Dr. Westmoreland referred Matthew to see one of Dr. Patel’s partners who performed his first procedure where he was diagnosed with significant blockages to both leg arteries. Following that, Matthew underwent a second procedure to open a blockage in the left-leg artery using an ultrasound balloon called shockwave lithoplasty. Unfortunately, neither of the procedures gave the results that Matthew hoped for. 

“It wasn't until I met Dr. Patel himself in January 2021 that things truly started to turn around.” 

Despite the grim recommendations from other specialists, Dr. Patel refused to accept defeat. He tirelessly worked with me, performing multiple procedures throughout several hospital visits. 

“Each time, he and his team made me feel like more than just a patient — they made me feel like family.” 

Matthew says the pain and fear of those moments are still vivid in his memory, but so is the unwavering support of Dr. Patel and his team. 

“Even during the darkest times, they remained beacons of hope, guiding me through every step of the way.” 

“Today, I stand here with both feet firmly planted on the ground, a testament to Dr. Patel's expertise and dedication,” Matthew added. “My wife Susan and I firmly believe that he was sent to us as a guardian angel, guiding us through the storm with his kindness, knowledge, and positivity.” 

Ingram_oceanThanks to Dr. Patel's treatment plan, Matthew says he can now enjoy life's simple pleasures, like traveling to various destinations with his wife, knowing that his legs can carry him wherever he wishes to go. 

“His continued care and support, even outside of the hospital walls, have been nothing short of extraordinary.” 

In the face of uncertainty and fear, Matthew says Dr. Patel was a ray of hope. 

“He didn't just save my legs; he restored my faith in miracles. For that, my gratitude knows no bounds. Dr. Patel truly is a miracle worker, and I am eternally thankful for his presence in my life.” 


Learn more about Northside Hospital Heart Institute.

 

 

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