Armend Shemsiu Patient

My name is Armend Shemsiu. I am 40 year old and currently live in Staten Island, New York. Football has always been a passion of mine. I started playing and watching football from a very young age. When I was 14 years old, I was chosen to play for my hometown team Korabi FC in the third division - professional soccer. I primarily played right midfielder, center midfielder and striker. After a 13 year playing career, I was diagnosed with Cardiomyopathy at the age of 27.

One of my biggest dreams was to get back on the pitch and play again which I was luckily able to do with the help of an ICD defibrillator at the age of 31. I continued to playing soccer 2-3 times a week with friends and participated in many different tournaments organized by my community. 2 year and 8 months ago I underwent heart transplant surgery which was my toughest challenge yet. With the help of my loved ones and amazing doctors, I am now ready to make a triumphant return. I dedicate this experience to my donor and their family, the amazing Heart Failure/Heart transplant team at New York Presbyterian Weill Cornell, especially Dr. Majure who's been with me all along the way and to my family.

One of the most incredible experiences after my transplant was being part of the USA Team

In the First Transplant World Cup in Italy. It was an honor to wear the USA Jersey and represent my country on a such international state.

Additionally, two months ago I received another invitation from the USA Transplant team to participate in the second World Football for soccer, which will be held this September in Germany.