Beating the odds: After 2 heart transplants, pro golfer inspires others

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (KSAZ) - It's something that comes easily for professional golfer Erik Compton. A simple swing, the perfect form. But what comes naturally now took an extraordinary amount of drive.

"Well, it's been a long journey. It's been almost 25 years I've had with two different hearts," he said.

Compton had his first heart transplant when he was 12 years old. His second, not long ago, back in 2008.

"Even being able to walk the golf course is a success for me," he said.

But he couldn't be stopped.

"I'm here because somebody else saved my life twice."

Compton is now known for being the only professional golfer in the world to compete with a transplanted heart.

"When I first got diagnosed, I was 9 years old and I didn't know I'd be a professional golfer at 36, but I wished I was."

It's an accomplishment he hopes will provide motivation today. For Compton, it's about spreading a message that has changed and saved his life. For adults, to understand the importance of becoming an organ donor and for kids, to understand through struggle, they can persevere.

"I try to inspire people to get up and never give up," said Compton.

His story has become a lesson. His career has become the proof.

You can see Compton playing in the Waste Management Open this week. You can also help his cause by visiting ErikCompton.com and Donate Life Arizona.