Carolyn’s Essay

As I reflect on that day in September 14 years ago I am nothing short of a miracle. It changed my life forever. All emotions running wild through me miracle, hope, anger, confusion, strength , fear and determination. I have been asked several time s What Was Your Symptons? My answer heartburn! I was sent directly to the cath lab and remember the procedure starting, then suddenly people in and out of the room, making phone calls, then my cardiologist looked down at me on the table and said you have a 95% blockage and your not going home you need open heart surgery. At this point all words, actions was running together I was in shock. How could this be happening to me at the young age of 44? Looking into the eyes of my family who was also in shock and the fear, so scary. I had my open heart surgery and my 1 by- pass. At some points recovery seemed like I would not make it through. I kept pushing and being encouraged by everyone around me and I made it. My blockage was what the medical profession calls the Widow Maker, I am lucky to be alive. Please, please if you think something is wrong or just a little off go get it checked, It saved my life. I struggled mentally after my surgery and started volunteering with Mended Hearts, talking to heart patients and their families started to mend me and still does. I now participate in a 5K heart mini yearly in a large city close to me.