Moving around with the LVAD

When I was discharged I was given a notebook and it included some options for mobility. They listed two sites for vests they are Bosco Vest: www.boscolvadves.com Ruzich Vest: www.vadvest.com These are not cheap but they are custom made to fit you. You need to supply them measurements and choose your fabric and colors then you will get a vest for you. The vest run about $140.00 (US). Details for measurements are on the web sites. Both vests will distribute the weight more evenly by putting the battery packs one on each side. The control unit is in a pouch in the center. I have a Heartmate 2 device. I did not like the vest that I was given when I left the hospital. It did not fit well and left the wires exposed to get caught on corners or easily pulled. I have ordered from both places and personally I prefer the Ruzich vest. However it does take several weeks (8-12) to get the vests. She can make about 1 per day and she is very busy. I found the Bosco vest left the wires visible and could catch on something and pull. However I did get the vest in less than 3 weeks. As for other options they suggested ammo belt pouches. I have done some looking and found it difficult to find packs big enough for the batteries and still look comfortable.

Hello emans, I have had my LVAD (HeartMate 3) since Feb 2016. I carry my batteries and modular in a backpack. I stuff bubble wrap in the backpack so it doesn't hurt. I also secure the backpack with a belt so that it won't bounce off my back. I purchased a small backpack (not the adult size). It balances the equipment. I tried using a shoulder bag and that did not work. Hope I did okay explaining.

Hello emans. First I would like to know what type LVAD you have, i.e. Heartmate 2. I have a Heartware. They gave me several items to carry the equipment. I have 2 different shoulder strap type bags. They're ok, but my shoulder gets sore if I have a couple of long days wearing them from the weight of the batteries. I also have a belt. I modified that with a pair of suspenders. I look like a gunslinger but at least it's comfortable.

Hello emans. First I would like to know what type LVAD you have, i.e. Heartmate 2. I have a Heartware. They gave me several items to carry the equipment. I have 2 different shoulder strap type bags. They're ok, but my shoulder gets sore if I have a couple of long days wearing them from the weight of the batteries. I also have a belt. I modified that with a pair of suspenders. I look like a gunslinger but at least it's comfortable.

My husband received the LVAS (Heart mate 3) in June and has found the messenger bag is the most convenient way to move around with the device during the day. He also is a diabetic so has an insulin pump so an additional piece of equipment to worry about. At night when he is off batteries, he switches the controller to the smaller pouch that can be laid next to him or put around his neck if he has to go to the bathroom or get up. We heard the concealed carry shirts are good but I ordered one and the pockets weren't big enough for the batteries so we returned it. I did see that a couple of the users had gotten walking belts and I also ordered these but my husband didn't like the fit. You might try those...the pockets are stretchy and I think they would work for someone who didn't mind wearing them. And the nice thing is that the company will allow you to return them. I ordered from Fipbelt and they were great.

I have tried several different approaches. Best so far has been use of cargo shorts and cargo pants. I put batteries in each pocket and the controller on a belly pack with shirt over the wires. Have used Company called 5.11 but they are rather expensive. Also use fishing shorts, pants and shirts from sporting good stores (Gander Mountain, Bass pro Shop, etc.) Rod Carew has come out with a special shirt for LVAD carry but very expensive ($170.00). I have used 5.11 concealed carry shirts but very hot. I have used football underwear with 5 or 6 pockets from Amazon, put batteries in pockets for thigh pads and if dressing up with shirt tucked into pants the controller in the front family jewels pocket or in using pull over I use the belly belt. I some times turn the pants wrong side out which makes insertion easier. Will continue to experiment until I find the perfect carry method. I seldom use the stuff my LVAD team gave me.

Which type of LVAD did you have implanted?

What type of LVAD did you get? Heartmate 2? Heartware?

May I ask what type of LVAD you have? Heartmate 2 or Heartware?

Choices, choices, choices. I have had my Heartmate II for almost 4 years. I use a courier pouch most times. Works the best just hanging on my right shoulder. I also have Tech shirts where the batteries fit in side pockets and the controller I place into my pants pocket. And since I do a lot of flying still overseas, I where the battery harnes and the fanny pack. That is the easiest for getting through TSA.