Anyone here have a pacemaker?

My son is getting one. Its on top of everything else that goes with a congenital heart defect, but he has been operation free for about 8 years. I am wondering about the day to day aspect of living with one. Is he going to see any impact at all, or does it just quietly do its thing in the background? One worry is the impact of being close to electrical equipment. No more watching me welding and working in the shop with me. No more Ipod.....? Or can he just use it but be more careful of how close it is to his heart? That kind of thing is pretty important when you are 12.

My father has had one for about ten years. He can't carry his cell phone in the shirt pocket closest to it, he can't have an MRI, and it's more of a PITA getting through security at the airport. That's about it.

I can try to put you in touch with a guy who has had heart problems and a pacemaker since being a kid. Talking to someone who's BTDT may help. Let me see if I can look him up.

It sucks having to change your daily activities to survive, but its not much of an option. Best of luck to your son and your whole family.

OK, contacted my friend and he is more than willing to speak with you and your son if you wish. Can you PM me an email address he can reach you?

There is a pretty good possibility it won't disturb his daily life at all.