Help Megan (Nurse&Marine) recover from SCAD heart

I am one of Megan’s friends and I am fundraising to support her during this difficult time.

On Monday 7/31/2023, Megan experienced sudden excruciating chest pain and was brought to Maine General Medical Center. She was found to have suffered a massive heart attack. When her cardiac tests demonstrated ongoing and worsening damage to her heart, she was life flighted to Maine Medical Center in Portland.

Upon arrival to Maine Medical Center, she was immediately taken into the Cath Lab, where it was discovered that the cause of her heart attack was due to a process called SCAD: spontaneous coronary artery dissection of her LAD. A surgery called a balloon angioplasty was done to help this ruptured area of her blood vessel heal.

SCAD causes lack of blood flow to the heart muscle because the vessel splits open. This is different than a traditional heart attack which is caused by plaques in the blood vessel. The cardiologist said this is terrible bad luck, her only risk factor being that she’s female.

Megan was discharged from Maine Med on Friday 8/4, but later that night, she had a return of severe chest pain. She is now readmitted to the cardiac ICU. The cause of the return of her pain was complete rupturing of the injured blood vessel.

As most of you are well aware, Megan is a strong, beautiful and giving person. She is tough and she is in an incredible amount of pain right now. She is the first person to help when someone is struggling. If you’ve been a recipient of her stuffed shells or special spicy chicken soup, you know what I’m talking about. She needs us right now.

Many of you have asked how you can help. Megan will be out of work for at least 6 weeks and will need to do cardiac rehab once she is improving. If you are able to help, I know she and her family will appreciate your support.

Megan has dedicated her life to helping others. As a combat US Marine, she served our country. And now Megan serves our community as an RN providing care with integrity and compassion. Let us now take the opportunity to give back and help our Meme.

Thank you!

From Dianna and all of Megan’s friends and family.