For two women in Bergamo, Italy, a life extended by innovative medical technology comes with a literal weight-nearly nine pounds carried in a backpack. Sister Valeria pedretti,79,and Flaminia Rossi,77,rely on portable Ventricular Assist Devices (VADs) to sustain them after being deemed ineligible for heart transplants in 2015. Their remarkable journeys highlight not only advancements in cardiac care,but also the crucial roles of dedicated medical teams,patient resilience,and supportive communities in navigating life with chronic illness,offering a beacon of hope for others facing similar challenges.
For Sister Valeria Pedretti, 79, and Flaminia Rossi, 77, carrying a backpack isn’t a choice – it’s essential for life. Inside each pack is a miniature computer that powers a pump implanted in their chests, directly connected to their hearts. Without these devices, neither woman would be alive today.
Both were deemed ineligible for heart transplantation in 2015 due to their age, and were initially given a prognosis of just three to six months to live. However, thanks to a specialized procedure performed at the Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital in Bergamo, Italy, they’ve continued to thrive, defying expectations and enjoying a quality of life many thought impossible.
The device, technically known as a Ventricular Assist Device (VAD), supports the weakened left ventricle, effectively compensating for the diminished pumping ability of their hearts. This allows them to live remarkably normal lives. “I can do practically everything,” says Flaminia Rossi, a retired factory worker. “My daughter is there to help when I need it, but I’m still here thanks to the incredible doctors and my own positive attitude.” She emphasized her resilience with a firm look and a thumbs-up.
The VAD creates a continuous flow of blood from the failing left ventricle to the aorta. The pump is controlled by a small external computer, called a controller, and powered by two batteries. These components are carried in the backpack and connected to the pump via a cable that exits the abdomen. This technology offers a lifeline for patients with end-stage heart failure, providing an alternative when transplantation isn’t an option.
“I thank the doctors for every gesture, every word, and every care they’ve given me,” says Sister Valeria, a Canossian nun. “I hope others can have the same help I’ve received. And I hope,” she adds with a smile, “that they find a way to reduce the weight of the implant…” Currently, the “burden” weighs nearly 9 pounds, but the future holds promise: the next generation of VADs will be wireless.
“The technical progress in mechanical systems supporting severely failing hearts in recent years has been extraordinary,” explains Michele Senni, director of the Cardiovascular Department at Papa Giovanni XXIII. “Today, we have very small and highly effective devices. The challenge now is to eliminate the cable and improve the biocompatibility of the pump.”
Amedeo Terzi, head of the Heart Transplant Center at the hospital, notes that both women are living full lives despite their condition. “Both have a good quality of life and engage in activities that wouldn’t be expected given their illness: Valeria continues to dedicate herself to caring for her fellow sisters, and Flaminia balances household chores with travel.”
So far, Valeria and Flaminia have avoided common complications associated with VADs, such as stroke, bleeding, infection, and right ventricular failure. While some of this may be attributed to luck, the meticulous and consistent care provided by their medical team is undoubtedly a key factor.
“The response we provide is always tailored to the patient’s health needs,” observes Alessandro Amorosi, health director of the Papa Giovanni XXIII hospital. “Research and technology will continue to provide us with more numerous and effective solutions. The role of healthcare professionals will increasingly be to identify the most appropriate solution for each condition and patient, leading to more precise and personalized medicine.”
The Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital implants between 10 and 12 VADs annually in patients with end-stage heart failure, either as a bridge to transplantation or as a definitive solution for those ineligible for a transplant. “Our Cardiovascular Department stands out nationally and internationally for its ability to respond to a wide range of patients,” says director general Francesco Locati. “Valeria and Flaminia are a concrete example of the achievements possible when technology meets the competence and dedication of our professionals.”
However, medical excellence and inner strength aren’t enough; a strong support network is also crucial. “The element of relationship is central,” notes Marcella Messina, Bergamo’s councilor for social policies and longevity. “These individuals don’t feel alone in the challenges they face every day. Our job is to be there for them.”
The stories of Valeria and Flaminia are not only examples of successful care, but also sources of inspiration. “We are nearing the end of the Jubilee, which called on everyone to be pilgrims of hope,” reflects Monsignor Giulio Dellavite, diocesan spokesperson. “One of the characteristic symbols of a pilgrim is a backpack. These stories give us all a backpack of hope – not a naive Christmas optimism, but a stubborn, daily determination to overcome even the worst of circumstances.”
