It's Survivor Series Saturday Featuring Rodney Waddell

Today we are excited to share with you a survivor story by Rodney Waddell, who suffered and survived an Aortic Dissection in 2018.

This was originally published by Sandra Gilmore in GoodNews For Everyone in September 2024.

GoodNews for Everyone Hope Prevails: Rodney Waddell’s Testimony by Sandra Gilmore

“They were treating me for one thing but it was definitely another,” Rodney Waddell explains. “Earlier that day, I knew something just wasn’t right when I was in my garage at home. I beat on the car to alert my wife. She called for help and the paramedics were on their way in minutes.”

At the initial survey, all the signs of a heart attack were there. EMTs did their best to get Waddell stabilized en route to the hospital for more specialized care.

Later, it was discovered that he suffered from an aortic dissection, a rare and extremely dangerous condition where the inner layer of the aorta, the large blood vessel branching off the heart, tears. Blood surges through the tear, causing the inner and middle layers of the aorta to split (dissect). This leads to massive internal bleeding, leaving a mere 7–10 minute window for effective medical intervention before the risk of bleeding out becomes imminent.

Statistically, only about one-third of people survive such an event and the subsequent surgery. For Rodney, it was about focusing on the One who could heal and save him, not the statistics of an anticipated one-third survival rate.

This ordeal began on November 15, 2018. After 45 days in the hospital, Rodney resumed his normal routines with his family and on his delivery route. And yet, what could be seen as mundane became miraculous.

Before his heart event, Rodney went about his days with a deep belief in the Lord. After the heart event, plus other health challenges, each day became a treasure and an opportunity to share with others just how much God cares about our lives. The blessings of daily life became more evident. He takes more joy from each day. Laughter, problem-solving, and engaging with people are now elevated components of his days rather than just simple parts of daily routines.

“He is with me, I know that for sure,” Rodney confirms as he shares with individuals as well as groups and/or congregations in churches throughout the Rome, GA area. You see, the aortic dissection wasn’t the only battle Rodney faced. The hurdles he met next were COVID-19 in 2020, then a stroke in 2021, and more recently cancer in 2022. The span from November 2018 to May 2022 tested Rodney’s resolve and physical strength.

His family stood strong during each health episode. His wife, children, and grandchildren supported him with faithful prayers and unwavering commitment. Hope was and is a staple in their lives.

Scriptures that stayed with Rodney were James 1:2 KJV, “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations.” and I Corinthians 10:13 KJV, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.”

Rodney adds, “I want to acknowledge my former and current pastors that have helped me along this journey: Pastor Mike Garrett from Dykes Creek and Pastor Mac McCurry of Pleasant Valley North Baptist both in Rome, Georgia for their guidance. There have been others who have and are dealing with various issues and they’ve asked me questions. I can only speak from my experience to just keep their heads up and know that they are not alone down this path called life.”

Someone recently asked, “Did you see a light?” Rodney replied with deep conviction, “Well, not exactly. I guess when you are walking in the Light, you don’t have to look for it!”

About the Author

Rodney Waddell lives in Rome, GA with his wife. They are proud parents and grandparents. He wants to share his testimony because he knows for sure the Lord caused a miracle and has more work for him to do on earth.

🫵We want YOU to be the shining star in someone else's life by sharing your story as a patient, survivor or caregiver.

❤️Whether it's Aortic Valve Disease, Aortic Aneurysms or an Aortic Dissection, your ability to validate another person's experience is not only therapeutic but inspiring.

❤️Help us show others how to Thrive and not just Survive♥️

𝗦𝘂𝗿𝘃𝗶𝘃𝗼𝗿 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀: Click HERE

𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗔𝗿𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗡𝗼𝘄: Click HERE