The Morra family faced a challenging journey after discovering a genetic heart condition affecting multiple members. It began when Joey Morra fainted during gym class, leading to the diagnosis of catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT), a potentially fatal arrhythmia. “Joey started the cascade,” Christine Morra explained, as further testing revealed that she and her children Julia and Jaymes also had CPVT.
CPVT is known for its high mortality rate if untreated, often triggered by adrenaline during physical activity or stress. Christine recalled the difficulty of Jaymes being diagnosed at three years old.
After moving to North Carolina in 2020, the Morras sought care at Duke Health’s Pediatric Cardiovascular Genetics Program. “Our doctors knew exactly who we should see at Duke,” said Christine. The program is led by Dr. Andrew Landstrom, an expert in treating rare pediatric arrhythmias like CPVT.
“CPVT is the most life-threatening arrhythmia syndrome that’s known,” Dr. Landstrom stated, emphasizing the importance of specialized treatment centers for managing such conditions.
In 2021, Jaymes received a cardiac monitor from Duke doctors to track his heart rhythm remotely. This allowed quick responses to any suspicious activity, such as an episode during a taekwondo test in early 2023.
Rather than altering medication, the decision was made to advance Jaymes’ surgery date due to adrenaline-induced symptoms. Sympathetic denervation surgery was performed by Dr. Ryan Antiel at Duke, reducing dangerous arrhythmias by removing part of the nerve releasing adrenaline into the heart.
“It was nice to have Jaymes undergo surgery close to home and to have Dr. Landstrom with us,” Christine expressed relief post-surgery.
Since then, Jaymes has experienced minor episodes but continues playing sports like baseball and volleyball without major issues. Dr. Landstrom emphasized that families with CPVT can lead normal lives with proper care: “Our goal is not only to alleviate that sudden death risk but to get you back to doing what you love.”
