Modern Family Star Julie Bowen Reveals Pacemaker Implant at 29

Julie Bowen, best known for her role on "Modern Family," has revealed she has been living with a pacemaker since she was 29 due to a heart condition called sick sinus syndrome, which causes dangerously low or irregular heart rates. The condition was detected when her sister, a medical student at the time, noticed an abnormal heartbeat during a vacation and urged Bowen to see a cardiologist. Bowen underwent pacemaker surgery immediately after filming the pilot for the NBC series "Ed," and initially feared the diagnosis meant her life was over. The pacemaker regulates her heart rate, preventing episodes of lightheadedness and the risk of passing out, especially when she is relaxed. Despite the severity of the condition, Bowen has learned to manage it well and rarely thinks about the device. The diagnosis and treatment have allowed her to continue her acting career, including upcoming projects such as "Happy Gilmore 2."