Finding Her Rhythm Again: How Kathi Sigona Took Control of Atrial Fibrillation
When Kathi Sigona arrived at UCSF, she carried more than a thick stack of medical records — she carried fear. Recently diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, a heart rhythm disorder that left her exhausted and anxious, she was searching for answers and a way back to the life she loved.
What she found instead was reassurance, partnership and a path forward.
Searching for the Best Care Close to Home
After learning she had atrial fibrillation from her cardiologist in Modesto, Kathi began researching top heart centers across the United States. She was prepared to travel anywhere for expert care.
To her surprise, one of the nation’s leading heart programs was right nearby — UCSF Heart and Vascular Center.
That discovery led her to Dr. Jeffrey Olgin, a nationally recognized heart rhythm specialist.
A Doctor Who Truly Listened
Walking into her first appointment, Kathi was overwhelmed. She didn’t fully understand what was happening inside her heart, and fear had taken over.
But from the moment Dr. Olgin began speaking, that fear started to fade.
He took the time to review her entire medical history — including a four-inch binder of test results and personal research — without rushing or dismissing her concerns. More importantly, he focused on how she felt, not just what the numbers showed.
Instead of treating her like a diagnosis, he treated her like a person.
That connection mattered. Kathi needed to keep working and traveling — the things that gave her life purpose. Dr. Olgin understood that immediately.
When Atrial Fibrillation Took Control
Before her diagnosis, Kathi was a middle school principal who spent her days constantly on the move. Her campus was large, and she thrived on being present everywhere — classrooms, hallways, playgrounds.
Atrial fibrillation changed that.
Suddenly, fatigue ruled her days. She found herself stuck behind a desk, drained of energy, frustrated by her limitations. Travel — once a joy — became stressful and exhausting. Even when she went on trips, she lacked the stamina to enjoy them.
Her goal was clear: get her life back.
A Personalized Treatment Plan
Dr. Olgin first adjusted her medications, hoping to control her heart rhythm without surgery. When medication alone wasn’t enough, he recommended catheter ablation, a procedure that targets faulty electrical signals in the heart.
Over time, Kathi underwent multiple ablations and eventually had a pacemaker implanted to stabilize her heart rhythm. Throughout the process, her care team monitored her closely, adjusting treatment as needed.
She now returns to UCSF twice a year for follow-ups — and her atrial fibrillation remains under control.
Care That Goes Beyond the Clinic
What stood out most to Kathi wasn’t just the procedures — it was the support.
She received a 24-hour emergency number for heart rhythm issues. The first time she used it, a doctor answered immediately and guided her through the situation.
Even while traveling internationally, including trips to Canada, she was never without expert advice. Knowing her care team was always reachable gave her confidence and peace of mind.
Living Fully Again
Today, Kathi is thriving.
She has returned to education — now supervising student teachers at Brandon University — and jokes that she’s moved from middle school to the university level.
Travel is back on the calendar too. Having grown up overseas, exploration is part of who she is. Prague, Budapest and London rank among her favorite destinations.
Most importantly, she no longer lets her heart condition dictate her life.
Her Message to Other Patients
Kathi’s advice is simple but powerful:
“Make your health a priority. No one will care more about your well-being than you.”
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