His care team's full court press kept this NBA vet alive

[3 MIN READ]

In this article:

• After retiring from the pro basketball, James Donaldson remained active and healthy, until he collapsed in his doctor's office while suffering from a torn aorta. 

• An 11-hour surgery at the Providence Swedish Heart and Vascular Institute saved his life, but recovery would come with significant mental health challenges. 

• With help from his Providence Swedish caregivers, Donaldson started a new journey, sharing his story to help others on a long road back to physical and mental health. Watch the video to learn more.  

James Donaldson was drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics in 1979, the first and only year the team won the NBA Championship. After retiring from the pros, Donaldson remained health conscious and active, going to the gym six days a week. At 57 and in excellent shape, Donaldson was getting ready for a round of golf with friends when his tee off was stalled backache, nausea and profuse sweating.

“I made the drive over to the doctor’s office,” says Donaldson. “I remember getting to the doctor’s office and vaguely remember seeing the reception counter in his office and from there everything just went black.”

It was Jan. 3, 2015. He didn't wake up for two weeks. Experts at the Providence Swedish Heart and Vascular Institute saved Donaldson's life with an 11-hour surgery to repair his severely torn aorta. But trauma from his near-death experience and his ongoing medical problems began to affect his entire life, personally and professionally, eventually compromising his mental health.

For Donaldson, the road back was a long one, but his Providence Swedish care teams walked with him every step of the way. Donaldson credits his caregivers with keeping him in a "winning mindset" that enabled him to recover and eventually thrive. Watch the short video to learn more about Donaldson and how he is channeling his energy into helping others like him find their way back to mental and physical health.

Learn more and find a physician or advanced practice clinician (APC)

The team of specialists at the Swedish Heart & Vascular Institute has access to the latest treatments and technology and the expertise to know how to use it safely and effectively. Call 206-320-4100 to learn more about the vascular care we offer.

Whether you require an in-person visit or want to consult a doctor virtually, you have options. Contact Swedish Primary Care to schedule an appointment with a primary care physician. You can also connect virtually with your doctor to review your symptoms, provide instruction and follow up as needed. And with Swedish ExpressCare Virtual, you can receive treatment in minutes for common conditions such as colds, flu, urinary tract infections and more. You can use our provider directory to find a specialist or primary care physician near you.

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Additional resources

Your Health: Today & Beyond. A healthy future you starts today at Providence Swedish.

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