DIX HILLS, N.Y. (1010 WINS) — A Suffolk County firefighter is gearing up for an extra special Father's Day this Sunday.
For the first time in years, 44-year-old Michael Leavey will enjoy all the perks of the holiday without fear of it being his last.
The Dix Hills firefighter and EMT had been diagnosed with heart failure and cardiomyopathy at 31. It became difficult for him to do just about anything.
"It was a lot of sitting in a chair," he added. "I couldn't lift. I had an LVAD installed, so I basically wore seven pounds of batteries."
A LVAD is a pump that doctors installed to keep Leavey's heart working until he had a much-needed procedure.
Then, last November, Leavey's doctors found a match for his ailing heart and he got a transplant.
He added that he's been recovering since then.
"Walking has been getting better and better," the 44-year-old said. "Lifting is starting to come around."
Leavey is on permanent disability but is grateful for his new life.
"I can swim." he said. "I can walk. I can help carry groceries."
Most importantly, Leavey knows he will be with his family for years to come.
"My family is there for me," he added. "They're willing to do whatever it takes."
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