Patrick Mascoli, 27, Suffers Stroke From Heart Opening, Finishes Chicago Marathon 2 Years Later
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Nov 13
Patrick Mascoli, 27, Suffers Stroke From Heart Opening, Finishes Chicago Marathon 2 Years Later
2 articles · Updated · Fox News · Nov 13
Summary
Boston engineer Patrick Mascoli suffered a stroke at 27 after collapsing in a gym in July 2024, despite running 40 miles a week and having no obvious warning signs beyond migraines.
CT and MRI scans at Boston Medical Center confirmed the stroke after first responders initially suspected dehydration and clinicians also tried vertigo treatment without improvement.
A bubble echocardiogram later found a patent foramen ovale — an opening between the heart’s upper chambers — that doctors said likely let a blood clot reach his brain.
About 1 month later, Mascoli underwent a catheter procedure to close the opening, then worked through therapy for lingering fine-motor problems and anxiety about running again.
In October 2026, he completed the Chicago Marathon with Team Abbott, while doctors said younger adults can mistake stroke symptoms such as dizziness, vomiting and vision changes for exhaustion.