The Oklahoma City Dodgers and INTEGRIS Health continue the “Home Run For Life” series for an 11th season and recognize their first honoree of 2022, Jack Chappell of Edmond.
The Oklahoma City Dodgers and INTEGRIS Health continue the “Home Run For Life” series for an 11th season and recognize their first honoree of 2022, Jack Chappell of Edmond, during the Dodgers’ 7:05 p.m. game Saturday against the Sugar Land Space Cowboys at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.
Chappell was diagnosed with heart failure in 2013 and was referred to cardiologists at INTEGRIS Health. He underwent placement of a HeartMate 2 Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) twice before it was recommended that Chappell pursue a heart transplant. He was subsequently placed on the transplant list in 2020.
Just nine months ago, in July 2021, Chappell received his new heart at INTEGRIS Health.
“Home Run For Life” recognizes individuals in the Oklahoma City community who have overcome a significant medical event with the help of their families, physicians and health care professionals. To symbolize the end of their battle against adversity, honorees take a home run “lap” around the bases during an in-game ceremony.
“Each month during the baseball season, we are proud to partner with INTEGRIS Health to honor the perseverance and courage displayed by these incredible Oklahomans,” OKC Dodgers President/General Manager Michael Byrnes said. “’Home Run For Life’ allows us to uniquely recognize their amazing and inspiring stories of triumph over significant health challenges."
While waiting for a heart transplant, Chappell was hospitalized in March 2021 after complications from a bout with asymptomatic COVID-19 in late 2020 that left him with internal bleeding.
He said the doctors put it plainly: “The only way to fix it is to put a new heart in you.”
Chappell, now 58, spent four months in the hospital waiting for his new heart, but he didn’t let that stop him from being productive. He had a desk set up in his hospital room allowing him to work remotely. Chappell didn’t miss a single paycheck.
“Why not?” Chappell replied when asked about his desire to work from his room. “I’m not going to sit around here and dwell on being sick.”
Chappell became a regular at INTEGRIS Health, getting acquainted with many of the staff. He raves about the quality of care and company he received at INTEGRIS Health. “They’d been through the journey with me this whole time,” he said. “They’re great caregivers.”
In July 2021, everyone received the good news. Chappell was getting his new heart. “I’m one of the fortunate ones,” he said.
