Hospital Worker Survives Three Heart Attacks in Four Days: How Listening to His Body Saved His Life

Tommy Bell, a 62-year-old patient transporter at AdventHealth DeLand Hospital, survived three heart attacks in the span of four days. His story highlights the importance of recognizing heart attack symptoms and seeking immediate medical attention.

How It Happened: A Timeline of Events

On November 26, 2025, Bell completed his shift at AdventHealth DeLand Hospital, where he had worked for over 10 years as the Patient Transport Supervisor. While driving home with his wife, Joi, he experienced persistent pressure in the center of his chest. Concerned, he turned back to the hospital’s emergency room.

After undergoing tests and imaging, Bell was scheduled for a cardiac procedure two days later, on Friday, November 28. During his hospital recovery, he suffered a heart attack and received a stent to restore normal blood flow. Once stabilized, he was moved to intensive care and discharged home two days afterward.

Despite the initial treatment, Bell still did not feel well at home. His wife took him back to the emergency room, where he experienced a second and third heart attack on December 2, 2025.

Recognizing Uncommon Heart Attack Symptoms

Bell admitted that his understanding of heart attack symptoms was limited before his experience.

"Prior to that day, I had never experienced anything like that before. The only symptoms of a heart attack that I knew of were what I had seen on TV—chest pain, pain down the arm, etcetera,"

His case underscores the need for greater awareness of lesser-known heart attack symptoms, which can vary widely among individuals.

The Comfort of Familiar Care

Despite the severity of his condition, Bell found comfort in receiving care from colleagues he knew personally.

"Knowing that I was being cared for by the people that I see and make laugh on a daily basis made me feel at home. Just knowing the level of care and support of my co-workers was comforting in my time of need,"

He also emphasized the trust he had in his medical team.

"Although it was strange being on the other side of things, I knew I was in good hands by the very best at what they do,"

Recovery and Support

After two weeks of recovery to regain his strength, Bell returned to work.

"My recovery included being surrounded by my work family and my home family,"

"There was not a day that went by that someone from the hospital did not reach out to check in on me. The support was phenomenal!"

Raising Awareness About Heart Attack Prevention

Bell hopes his story will help others recognize the signs of a heart attack and take action promptly.

"I felt it on my heart to share my story because if I can help save a life by reminding people to listen to their bodies, I have done what God has called me to do,"

Key Takeaways for Heart Attack Awareness

• Symptoms can vary: Not all heart attacks present with classic chest pain or arm pain.
• Act quickly: Seeking medical attention at the first sign of symptoms can be lifesaving.
• Listen to your body: Persistent or unusual symptoms, even if mild, should not be ignored.

Bell’s experience serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of heart health awareness and the impact of timely medical intervention.