A Life-Saving Diagnosis — Just Days Before “I Do”

What began as what seemed like a routine sports injury quickly became something far more serious for Salem, NH resident Tom Mahan…just days before his wedding.

In late November 2025, Tom began experiencing pain in his right calf and Achilles. Initially diagnosed as a tear, he followed a standard course of orthopedic care, including physical therapy, expecting improvement. But as weeks turned into months, his symptoms worsened.

The pain spread to his thigh and became constant, limiting his once-active lifestyle.

“I was normally able to comfortably take 10,000 daily steps, but the pain restricted me to less than 500,” Tom shared.

Despite multiple evaluations elsewhere, answers remained elusive. Trusting his instincts, Tom sought another opinion, a decision that ultimately changed everything.

The Critical Diagnosis

On February 19, an ultrasound finally revealed the true cause: a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a potentially life-threatening blood clot.

Tom immediately went to Parkland’s Freestanding Emergency Room in Plaistow, where the diagnosis was confirmed. He was admitted that same evening to Parkland Medical Center, where a coordinated care team, including Dr. Omar Hyder from Cardiovascular Specialists of New England (CSNE), quickly mobilized.

“When Tom arrived at Parkland, I ordered a specialized ultrasound of his lower right leg, which clearly showed a large blood clot,” said Dr. Devin Keefe, chief of emergency medicine at Parkland Medical Center. “Tom appeared to be a good candidate for thrombectomy, and after consulting with Dr. Omar Hyder and the care team, a treatment plan was quickly developed.”

A Collaborative, Advanced Treatment Approach

With his wedding just days away and travel plans to Jamaica scheduled for February 24, time was critical.

“When I was told about the size of the blood clot, I had concerns,” Tom said. “But Dr. Keefe, Dr. Hyder, and the clinical team assured me they could remove it effectively and that I would be in good hands.”

On the morning of February 20, Tom underwent a minimally invasive DVT thrombectomy, performed by Dr. Hyder of CSNE. The procedure successfully removed the clot and restored healthy blood flow.

“When it comes to a clot, timing is critical,” Dr. Hyder said. “Fortunately, Tom recognized that something wasn’t right, and he sought medical attention. The success of this procedure was due not only to the timing, but also the coordinated team approach, and the advanced clinical equipment at Parkland Medical Center. Thanks to the whole team, Tom was treated quickly, resulting in a positive outcome so that he could be discharged the following day and prepare for his upcoming wedding.”

Tom was discharged the very next day.

Compassionate Care When It Mattered Most

Throughout the experience, Tom and his fiancée, Jen, felt supported every step of the way.

“I was never uncomfortable,” Tom said. “The team kept us informed throughout, and we never felt like we were waiting.”

For Jen, the initial fear was overwhelming.

“When I was heading to the ER, I thought the wedding would be postponed. More importantly, I was worried about Tom’s health,” she said.

But the reassurance and expertise of the Parkland’s care team and Dr. Hyder helped shift their outlook.

“The entire clinical team did a great job easing our nerves,” Tom said. “Considering how serious the situation was, they helped us feel comfortable and confident in the plan.”

Back On His Feet — Just in Time

Because of the timely diagnosis and expert care, Tom was able to recover and safely travel for his wedding just days later.

“If I had gotten on that plane without knowing about the blood clot, who knows what could have happened,” he said.

Today, Tom and Jen are grateful — not only for the outcome, but for the collaboration that made it possible.

A Message to Others

Tom hopes his experience encourages others to listen to their bodies and seek answers when something doesn’t feel right.

” You know your body best,” he said. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek a second opinion. We’re grateful the care team at Parkland and Dr. Hyder took us seriously and helped me get healthy so we could move forward with our wedding. The medical team saved the day and the start of the rest of our lives together.”

At Cardiovascular Specialists of New England, in partnership with Parkland Medical Center, stories like Tom’s underscore the importance of listening to your body and seeking expert care when something doesn’t feel right. Timely diagnosis and coordinated treatment can make all the difference — not just in outcomes, but in life’s most meaningful moments.