Built to Last: How a Mechanical Valve Gave Gene His Life Back
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When Gene Ruiz was 50, a routine colonoscopy revealed something unexpected. His vitals raised concerns, prompting the physician to call in cardiologist Thomas Amidon, MD. After the colonoscopy, Dr. Amidon personally walked Gene to Overlake’s cardiology clinic to schedule an echocardiogram. The test confirmed a congenital heart defect: a bicuspid aortic valve — an abnormality that forces the heart to work harder and worsens over time.
Gene remained active and determined to stay healthy, but by the summer of 2024, his symptoms became harder to ignore. Even simple activities left him winded. During a family trip to Hawaii, he couldn’t make it past the parking lot for a hike he once would have led with ease. “I couldn’t keep making excuses,” Gene said, recalling how his wife, Irasema, and their kids urged him to seek care.
By year’s end, follow-up imaging showed the valve had significantly deteriorated. After in-depth conversations with Overlake’s cardiac specialists, Gene decided to move forward with open-heart surgery. Cardiothoracic surgeon Scott Louis, MD, recommended replacing the valve with a durable mechanical option — one that would support Gene’s active lifestyle for decades to come.
The surgery was scheduled for Feb. 2025. Just after the procedure got underway, Gene suffered a rare and previously unknown allergic reaction to a medication that caused his heart to stop. Dr. Louis responded immediately, performing CPR for 20 minutes to restore his heartbeat. He stabilized Gene and completed the valve replacement.
While the emergency was unexpected, the outcome reflects the strength of the cardiac care Gene received. “Dr. Louis’ passion is incredible,” Gene said. “Thank God I had the right people, at the right place, at the right time.”
“I’m ahead of schedule — and feeling stronger every day.”
Now in cardiac rehab, Gene is already outperforming expectations. “Today, I was on my treadmill, and my incline and speed are better than they were before surgery,” he said. “I’m ahead of schedule — and feeling stronger every day.”
Looking ahead, Gene is focused on healing, staying active and making the most of his second chance. “My next goal?” he says with a smile. “To race — and beat — my cross-country-running son, Nic. And thanks to Overlake, I’m well on my way.
Your heart deserves exceptional care.
At Overlake’s Heart & Vascular Center, patients like Gene receive expert, compassionate care — no matter how complex the case. As the most advanced heart center on the Eastside, we offer a full range of services, from early detection and surgical intervention to rehab and recovery. Our nationally recognized team brings award-winning expertise and personalized attention to every patient, every time.
