Al Ruble of Edmond was just 41 years old when his life nearly ended. As the result of severe cardiomyopathy, his heart was only operating at 10% efficiency.
Al Ruble of Edmond was just 41 years old when his life nearly ended. As the result of severe cardiomyopathy, his heart was only operating at 10% efficiency. “It was working about 7% on one side and 3% on the other,” he claims. “My doctor didn’t mince words, he said, ‘you need a heart transplant - or you will die.’”
Back in 1986, heart transplantation was in its infancy. Ruble was worried about the risks but says he didn’t have a choice. “It was the only chance I had. I had to do it. I wanted to do it.”
The operation was performed on Oct. 1, 1986, by the legendary Nazih Zuhdi, M.D., a pioneer who established Oklahoma's first adult heart transplant program. Ruble was the 12th heart transplant ever performed at the INTEGRIS Health Nazih Zuhdi Transplant Institute (then known as the Baptist Heart Center) in Oklahoma City.
David Vanhooser, M.D., is a longtime thoracic and cardiovascular surgeon with the INTEGRIS Health Heart Hospital. He remembers the excitement surrounding Ruble’s case. “We hoped the surgery would be successful and extend Mr. Ruble’s life, but I don’t think any of us could have imagined back then that he would still be alive 40 years later!”
He adds, “The national median life expectancy post heart transplantation is 14 years. Mr. Ruble has nearly tripled that.”
David Nelson, M.D., is a cardiologist with INTEGRIS Health Heart Hospital Advanced Cardiopulmonary Care. “Having a heart transplant program in place for 41 years is something we are incredibly proud of, but caring for a patient like Mr. Ruble for 40 of those years makes that legacy especially meaningful. His journey is a testament to the quality and dedication of our physicians, nurse practitioners and caregivers, and to the lasting relationships we build with the patients we serve.”
Following his surgery, Ruble became close personal friends with Dr. Zuhdi and actively advocated for the growth of surgical medicine in Oklahoma for many years. He hopes he can serve as an inspiration to others by continuing to share his story. “I don’t know why I’m still alive at 81 years of age,” he admits. “But if I can help other people who are just starting their transplant journey have hope, then that’s what I will do until my last breath.”
For heart transplant questions, you can call INTEGRIS Health Heart Hospital Advanced Cardiopulmonary Care at 405-713-9911.
If you are over the age of 40, check the risk factors. Regular screening and early detection can lead to timely interventions, potentially preventing more serious heart conditions down the line.
