For 70 years, Kathleen Anderson’s congenital heart disease eroded her health, bringing her to her knees in prayer. Finally, as she prepared for a heart transplant, she paused to pray, hoping for healing and respite after the surgery.
Though she awoke with a healthy new heart, the ordeal triggered a months-long spiritual battle. Anderson cried out to God, struggling to find peace. She now says that God has healed her both physically and spiritually, crediting her Catholic faith, commitment to prayer, and support from others for helping her persevere.
“My advice to those suffering is to never give up hope and to turn to Jesus because He will give you the peace you need,” said Anderson, a longtime parishioner of St. Cornelius Church in Long Beach, California.
Born into a devout Catholic family, Anderson prayed the rosary every night with her parents, asking God to heal her heart. Despite doctors' doubts about her ability to have children, she married and had three kids. Over time, her condition worsened. She had her first heart surgery at 52 and underwent several more procedures before being placed on Cedars-Sinai Medical Center’s heart transplant list. Despite the rarity of heart transplants, Anderson remained hopeful and prayed, “Thy will be done.”
Her faith was tested with several setbacks, including being called in for transplants that didn't happen and being removed from the list during the COVID-19 pandemic. In November 2020, she was finally called in for a transplant for the third time. “I was wheeled into the operating room, and the doctor asked, ‘Are you ready for battle?’ And I knew it was time.”
Post-surgery, Anderson faced unexpected spiritual challenges. Her new heartbeat felt different, and she feared rejection of the heart. She didn’t feel the expected euphoria but instead felt fear and confusion. Supported by her strong community and steadfast prayer, she slowly began to feel joy.
Approaching the first anniversary of her transplant, she planned a party to thank her supporters. She felt invigorated and grateful, wanting to connect personally with those who had supported her.
Now 74, Anderson has been married for 48 years, is a grandmother of seven, and has been active in her parish for over 20 years. She maintains a friendship with her heart donor’s family and teaches her grandchildren to turn to God in all circumstances. Sharing her story to spread hope and healing, Anderson’s daughter Jaclyn Padgett notes her mother’s sense of wonder and appreciation for the gift of life.
Monsignor Jarlath Cunnane, pastor at St. Cornelius, describes Anderson as a dedicated parishioner whose testimonies at parish retreats are impactful due to their depth and faith. Anderson focuses on living in the moment and following God’s plan, saying, “I now hold two hearts within me—one physical, and one spiritual, sharing in the wonders of God’s glorious works. And I thank God every day.”