Patient overcomes AFib return after lightning strike

For more than 25 years, Angela M., has devoted her life to teaching high school students in Alma, Bacon County, Georgia. Healthy and active, she never expected heart rhythm problems to interrupt her life. When she was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (AFib), she was referred to Dr. Amr Barakat, a cardiologist and electrophysiology specialist with Ascension St. Vincent’s.

In 2023, Dr. Barakat performed her first ablation at Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside. The procedure went smoothly, and Angela returned to her classroom feeling like herself again. With her heart rhythm stable, she transitioned to annual check-ups.

But in August 2025, the unexpected happened: Angela was struck by lightning. Shaken but alive, she noticed her Apple Watch alerting her to an irregular heartbeat. She immediately reached out to Dr. Barakat, knowing something wasn’t right. “She was understandably frightened,” said Dr. Barakat. “Our goal was to quickly evaluate her symptoms, get answers, and reassure her that we had a path forward.” 

Tests confirmed that Angela’s AFib returned. Dr. Barakat was initially able to restore her normal rhythm with medications, but AFib continued to recur, so to treat her condition, Dr. Barakat performed a second ablation. 

“I knew I was in good hands,” Angela said. “Dr. Barakat explained everything in a way that made me feel comfortable. I could tell he genuinely cared about helping me get my life back.”

Today, Angela is doing well and recovering with confidence. She credits Dr. Barakat’s clarity and compassion for guiding her through an unexpected challenge and helping her feel supported every step of the way.

At Ascension St. Vincent’s Cardiology – Riverside, patients benefit from nationally connected cardiovascular specialists offering advanced diagnostics, minimally invasive procedures, and coordinated heart care.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of AFib or other heart rhythm concerns, our cardiovascular specialists are here to help. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Barakat today.