Skip to Main Content

Smokey Rashid Has a New Fire in His Heart

Baylor St. Luke’s Gives New York Patient a Second Chance at Life

Karim “Smokey” Rashid was 46 when he blacked out while driving in his hometown of New York City. After meeting with his cardiologist in New York, Smokey discovered he had cardiac sarcoidosis, a condition so severe it required a new heart.

He was referred to Dr. Reynolds Delgado and the heart transplant team at Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center in Houston and was placed on the transplant list.

In 2012, Smokey underwent a heart transplant at Baylor St. Luke’s. Just six weeks after his transplant, Smokey was able to return to work. He credits Baylor St. Luke’s and his team of cardiologists for his second chance at life.

“I think about my donor every day,” says Smokey. “I feel like Baylor St. Luke’s is one of the institutions that will be among the most important in my life. I have tremendous affection for this institution.”

Today, his new heart has given him a true passion for life, and he lives every day celebrating what the world has in store. Smokey is now able to exercise, something he couldn’t dream of doing before his transplant, and looks forward to spending quality time fishing, riding bicycles, and playing tennis with his children.

Related Patient Stories

Early Detection Is Cancer's Worst Enemy

MAR 08, 2024

42-year-old Houston CPA is living proof that early detection of ovarian cancer improves one’s treatment and prognosis.

Read More Additional information about Early Detection Is Cancer's Worst Enemy

New heart, new lease on life

FEB 29, 2024

An Austin realtor participated in a recent 5K to celebrate the new heart he received at Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center after struggling with a genetic heart condition called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy for 30 years.

Read More Additional information about New heart, new lease on life

Surgeon performs first robotic-assisted coronary bypass surgery at St. Luke’s Health–The Woodlands Hospital

FEB 16, 2024

Facing blockages in two critical arteries after hip surgery, Rick Woody opted for a groundbreaking robotic-assisted CABG surgery. Rick's journey showcases the power of personalized care at St. Luke’s Health–The Woodlands Hospital.

Read More Additional information about Surgeon performs first robotic-assisted coronary bypass surgery