Ted Hodges gives Newsome a few tips on competitive fencing, revealed his heart of gold
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Ted Hodges has a gentle smile and a kind heart. His inspiring story is one that I will always remember.
In September 2009, Hodges had a heart transplant at Saint Luke's Hospital in Kansas City, Mo. It was a life-changing experience he shares to give hope to others.
Hodges and I went fencing together at Heartland Fencing Academy. It was the perfect workout because fencing is such a big part of his life story.
Hodges was a strong athlete and a competitive fencer in high school and at Notre Dame University. In June 2009, he was on break from college at home in Salina, Kan., when he started getting sick and had a heart attack. He was transported to Saint Luke's and had his second heart attack as he arrived.
"My heart stopped working, so I was basically kept alive with a mechanical heart," explained Hodges.
His family and friends encouraged and supported Hodges throughout his hospitalization. His fencing team at Notre Dame sent him a team flag and told him to bring the flag with him when he returned to school.
The messages of love boosted his fighting spirit and helped him survive.
Hodges' heart transplant in 2009 was the beginning of his second chance at life.
"I immediately felt better," said Hodges.
After intense physical therapy, Hodges returned to the fencing team at Notre Dame one year after his transplant.
In his first competitive match with his new heart, Hodges beat his opponent by one point! His teammates, family and friends were there to watch his come-back.
To hear more about Ted Hodges story, you can click on the following links:
Cynthia Newsome can be reached at cynthia.newsome@kshb.com.