Birmingham resident Erik Morganroth, a two-time heart transplant recipient, has overcome incredible odds and is now living a fulfilling life with his wife and children. Morganroth’s journey began shortly after he graduated from the University of Michigan, when he suddenly struggled to breathe and was rushed to Beaumont Hospital for tests. Both sides of his heart were kept pumping through a machine, and he was on life support for a record-breaking 34 days before receiving his first heart transplant.
Twelve years later, abnormalities in his transplanted heart led to him being listed for a second transplant. This time, Morganroth played a more active role in his own care, demanding information, asking questions, and ensuring the options chosen were in the best interest of himself and his family. Despite his health challenges, Morganroth has pursued his passions, enjoying fine dining, traveling the world with his family, and advocating for the Frankel Cardiovascular Center and Gift of Life. On May 5, he will serve as the chair of the 2024 Washtenaw County Heart and Stroke Walk & 5K, an event organized to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the American Heart Association.
Morganroth’s inspiring story serves as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of advocating for one’s own health. Through his experiences, he has become a beacon of hope and a driving force for positive change in the medical community. To learn more about the upcoming Heart and Stroke Walk & 5K event, visit www2.heart.org.
