Barry's heart attack story

Heart disease kills one Australian every 24 minutes.

Barry was working on his farm when he had a heart attack.

"I was chopping wood when I felt a tightness and pain in my chest. I’d had absolutely no warning signs prior. I’d even been hay carting just weeks before. Now, the pain wasn’t severe, but it was uncomfortable and I sat down to rest. It never really occurred to me that it could be a heart attack."

Because Barry’s family has a history of heart disease, he had always been careful to stay fit and healthy.

Apart from working on the farm, I played cricket and football, I was a runner, and I even bought an exercise bike that I used for 30 minutes every day. I don’t smoke or drink and I’m not overweight. I have always eaten well, with lots of fruit and vegetables.”

Barry is alive today because his wife recognised the warning signs and called Triple Zero (000) immediately.

"Farmers in particular hate to admit our frailties. We’re self-sufficient, hard working, and independent. We also live in isolation. So, for your own sake and for your family, don’t think you’re not going to have a heart attack, because it really can happen to anyone."

Barry is sharing his story in the hope that it can help others.

"I believe it is tremendously important that people know the warning signs of heart attack. And I’m telling everyone I know; if you get any symptoms at all, don’t muck around. Get help. Better safe than sorry!"

Take a moment to download the action plan and learn the warning signs. It could save your life or the life of someone you love. Get an action plan at www.heartattackfacts.org.au or call 1300 36 27 87.