INDIANAPOLIS — After months of waiting and dozens of hours of rehab, Jeff Taber says he's excited to be returning to the "fun chaos" of home.
Taber, who had a Congenital Heart Defect, spent more than two years on the heart transplant list and has been at Riley Hospital since January. His old heart was enlarged, which affected his ability to breathe and his energy levels.
"With the [previous] heart, I would get fatigued very quickly so that was always the issue- those are the things now that aren't affecting me as much."
He received his donor heart on July 6.
WRTV first introduced you to Taber in February. Before his transplant, Taber said his focus was on maintaining his health so his body would be ready when a heart was available. Now, he can continue looking forward.
"[I've been] doing things that I've been wanting to do and being able to, you know, actually make goals that are progress. Back before [the transplant], it was always maintenance and no real improvement," Taber said. "Now [I] continue to set goals and continue to meet goals."
He says his faith and his family have gotten him through. Taber is a husband and father of eight.
IU Health houses one of the largest Adult Congenital Heart Defect programs in the Midwest. Taber is a part of the program through Riley.
CHD is the most common birth defect in the United States, according to the CDC.
-
Utility bills climbing? These tricks will help you stay warm and keep costs down
As we continue to deal with frigid temperatures, many may be worried about their utility bills next month. Local experts have some tips and tricks to keep your heat high, but costs low
Indiana Hospital Association report reveals financial crisis for hospitals
Indiana hospitals could see a staggering $1 billion in annual revenue loss over the next three to five years, according to a recent report from the Indiana Hospital Association.
Indianapolis family mourns woman who died shoveling snow
Charles Wells lost his 59-year-old daughter, Violet Wells, who he said was found outside after shoveling snow on Monday.
Enter to win 4 tickets to an Indy Ignite game!
Here's your chance to experience the thrill of women's professional volleyball! Just fill out the form and you could win 4 tickets to see the Indy Ignite live at Fishers Event Center!
