
Episode #7
Two Heart Attacks, One New Mission
At 41, Kieran Bush thought he was doing everything right. He had lost weight, was walking regularly and felt healthier than ever. But in July 2025, after what seemed like an ordinary day in Darwin, Kieran became violently ill and experienced a moment of terrifying clarity: he needed help immediately. In this episode of Stories from the Heart , Kieran shares what it was like to survive two heart attacks, including one while being transported to hospital, and how that experience now informs his work as a Consumer Engagement Officer with the Menzies School of Health Research. Through his role at Menzies, Kieran helps connect researchers, clinicians and First Nations communities so health information is culturally appropriate, understandable and shaped by the people it is designed to support. His own heart story adds another layer to that work, giving him a deeply personal understanding of why clear communication, trust and community voices matter. Resources and support ❤️ Heart attack vs cardiac arrest – Learn the difference between a heart attack and cardiac arrest, including warning signs and what to do in an emergency. https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/blog/heart-attack-vs-cardiac-arrest ❤️ Heart Health Checks – Find out what a Heart Health Check involves and how it can help assess your risk of heart disease. https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/your-heart/heart-health-checks ❤️ First Nations heart health – Access heart health information and support developed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/first-nations-heart-health ❤️ Menzies School of Health Research – Learn more about Menzies and its work to improve health outcomes, particularly for First Nations communities and people in northern Australia. https://www.menzies.edu.au/ If Kieran's story has made you think about your own heart health, don't wait. Learn the warning signs, know your risk, and speak with your GP about a Heart Health Check — especially if you have symptoms, risk factors or a family history of heart disease. #StoriesFromTheHeart #HeartFoundation #HeartHealth #HeartDisease #HeartAttackSurvivor #KnowYourRisk #ListenToYourBody #NorthernTerritoryHealth






