"I'm still not sure how to pronounce Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy." - Collin Douma

 

Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy, better known as “Broken Heart Syndrome,” is a rare and mysterious condition that shows just how deeply our emotions are tied to our physical health. It might not come with the loud bang of a grenade, but its impact can be just as devastating—quiet, yet life-altering. To date, it has taken the lives of over 100,000 people worldwide.

 

This piece captures the raw and fragile nature of the human heart under the weight of intense emotional stress. Like the shrapnel from a grenade, the effects of this condition spread outward, touching the lives of loved ones and everyone nearby. The sculpture’s intricate design mirrors the vulnerability and resilience of the heart, blending the beauty of its form with the heaviness of its emotional burden.

 

The work invites viewers to pause and consider the unseen battles we carry—how grief, stress, and heartbreak can ripple outward, affecting far more than just the person at the center. It’s a reminder of how deeply connected we all are and how vital it is to care for not only our physical hearts but also the emotional bonds that keep us whole.