Quiet, easy-going, fighter, dad...meet Joe Tummino.

Joe is a 1998 alumni of SVCA and an active member at SVBC with his children Hailey and Dakota. In 2003, Joe was diagnosed with Dilated Cardiomyopathy. Over the past six years, Joe has struggled with his health, but has continued his easy-going spirit.

While at UVA in December 2009, Joe was put on a short list for a heart transplant. His new heart didn’t come, so on January 7, the doctors at UVA implanted an LVAD device. This device is a one to three year bridge to get him to his heart transplant. Joe is anticipating to return home in a couple of weeks after learning about his device and his home care. He is excited to see his children for the first time in two months because children under 12 are not allowed in the area where Joe has been. Following his return home, he will travel back to UVA weekly for doctors to monitor his device.

As you can imagine, Joe has encountered many expenses over his time at UVA and will have additional travel expenses over the coming months during his check-ups at UVA.

Even if you haven’t met Joe, would you please pray for him as he adjusts to his device as well as for his coming heart transplant? Additionally, would you consider giving to help Joe with his expenses? All donations can be given to SVBC/SVCA and will be given to Joe to encourage and bless him. 

Checks can be made payable to SVBC with Joe Tummino in the memo. Please contact Kay Combs at 540-869-4600 x4042 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it if you have any questions.