Dallas County Sheriff Granthum urges getting health checkups after undergoing open-heart surgery

Dallas County Sheriff Mike Granthum is on the mend following a medical ordeal that began with shortness of breath and ended in emergency open-heart surgery to address a 99.9% blockage in his "widow maker" artery. 

Granthum, who underwent surgery in early October and is currently on medical leave, shared that initial attempts to use a less invasive procedure were aborted when he went into cardiac arrest on the operating table. Surgeons were forced to revert to the traditional method, opening his sternum and performing multiple bypasses. Complications required additional incisions and temporary use of a pacemaker, which has since been removed. 

Despite the severity of the situation, Granthum emphasized his gratitude and resilience. “I didn’t have any strokes or damage to my heart, and they expect a full recovery,” he said. “I’m getting better every day.” 

Though not yet cleared for full duty, Granthum has been visiting the sheriff’s office regularly, staying in close contact with interim Chief Deputy John Hatfield and his team. “We talk every morning at seven. I’m signing payroll, reviewing bills, just staying involved,” he said. “I’ve got a good crew, and they haven’t missed a beat.” 

Granthum credited the department’s preparedness for its continued stability, noting his commitment to training and succession planning. “You only borrow this office,” he said. “It’s your job to prepare others to step up.” 

Reflecting on the experience, Granthum urged others, especially men who often procrastinate doctor visits, to take chest discomfort seriously and seek medical attention. “It wasn’t pain, just tightness. I put it off too long,” he admitted. “If you have symptoms, go get checked. Your body’s trying to tell you something.” 

He also acknowledged the outpouring of community support, from prayers to fruit baskets. “I’ve never had so many grain foods and apples,” he joked. “But I appreciate every bit of it.” 

Granthum’s message was clear: health is paramount. “You can’t enjoy your house, your car, but mainly your family and friends if you don’t have good health,” he said. “Take care of yourself, because if you don’t, you can’t take care of anyone else.”