From childhood fear to Ironman finisher and future physician, Alex’s journey with Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) Syndrome shows the power of early diagnosis, expert care, and determination to give back.
By: The SADS Foundation and Alex G.
Published October 30, 2025 | 8 min read
“My heart journey made me want to be the kind of doctor who helps patients feel safe and empowered.”
– Alex
Before he ever knew that something was wrong with his heart, Alex remembers running to his mom, clutching his chest and saying that his heart was “racing.” As a young child, those moments were terrifying. “I didn’t know what was happening,” Alex says. “I worried I’d never be able to play sports, live a normal life, or feel safe in my own body.”
At twelve years old, a routine cardiology visit – scheduled at the end of the year to take advantage of the family’s deductible – changed everything. Alex was diagnosed with Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) Syndrome, a condition that causes an extra electrical pathway in the heart, leading to dangerously fast rhythms. Shortly after, he underwent a cardiac ablation that eradicated two accessory pathways which cured the condition.
“The procedure gave me back my confidence, my health, and my future,” Alex says. “I feel incredibly lucky and blessed to have been cured.”
The SADS Foundation provides resources, support, and referrals for families affected by Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) Syndrome and other genetic heart rhythm conditions. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or years into your journey, our team can help connect you with expert physicians, educational tools, and a caring community that understands.
Making a Change – for Others with Rare Hearts
That sense of gratitude became the foundation for his life. After returning to sports, Alex played baseball through college and eventually took on an even bigger challenge: triathlon. Over the past few years, he has competed in Ironman 70.3 Chattanooga, Ironman Lake Placid, Mussellman 70.3, and several local Miami triathlons, often finishing on the podium. This July, he achieved a lifelong goal by qualifying for the 2026 Ironman 70.3 World Championships in Nice, France.
“Triathlon pushes me to my limits physically and mentally,” Alex says. “But after what I went through as a kid, I know how lucky I am to even be able to race.”
Now a second-year medical student at Florida International University’s Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Alex is driven by the same curiosity and compassion that guided the doctors who cared for him years ago. “My pediatric cardiologist was amazing – he calmed my fears and even had me circle the delta waves on my own ECG. After the ablation, he showed me that I did not have any more delta waves. That experience stuck with me,” he says. “It made me want to be the kind of doctor who helps patients feel safe and empowered.”
Alex recently began his cardiac unit in medical school – seeing WPW in his syllabus for the first time. “It’s surreal,” he laughs. “It feels like coming full circle.” Though currently drawn to ophthalmology, cardiology remains close to his heart – literally.
We know that finding a doctor who understands your condition – and is on your team! – can make all the difference for families with rare heart conditions. Get a referral to an expert physician here.
Raising Awareness and Funds for Families Like His
Through his racing and medical journey, Alex hopes to raise awareness and support for others affected by genetic heart rhythm conditions. He recently connected with the SADS Foundation to share his story, participate in peer outreach, and help fundraise through his races. His school and community have rallied around his mission.
When asked what advice he’d give to others newly diagnosed with WPW, Alex says to stay positive. “Pray, connect with what motivates you, and know that with WPW, there are good outcomes,” he says. “Don’t let the diagnosis define you – make it a part of your journey.”
Reflecting on how far he’s come – from a scared kid in a hospital gown to a triathlete and future physician – Alex says his mission is simple: “I just want to show others what’s possible.”
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with WPW or another SADS condition, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Visit sads.org to find expert care, connect with a supportive community, and learn how to live – and thrive – with a rare heart condition.
Need help now? Connect with our Family Support Team for referrals, resources, and community.
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